Stamp Password-Protected PDF Exhibits Safely
Remove password protection locally on your device, stamp your exhibits, and maintain privacy. No cloud uploads—everything processes in your browser.
Stamp Your Unlocked PDFs - Try FreeThe Encrypted PDF Blocker
Your client sends you bank statements as evidence. You upload them to stamp as Exhibit G. Error: "This PDF is password-protected and cannot be modified."
PDF encryption prevents all editing—including exhibit stamping. You need the password to unlock it first.
How to Remove PDF Password Protection (5 Steps)
Identify Password-Protected PDF
ExhibitPrep will display an error message when you try to upload an encrypted PDF.
Open PDF in Preview or Acrobat
Mac: Open in Preview. Windows: Open in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Export Without Password
Mac: File → Export as PDF. Windows: File → Save As → PDF.
Save Unencrypted Version
Save the new PDF with a descriptive filename like "Contract_unlocked.pdf".
Upload to ExhibitPrep
Upload the unlocked PDF to ExhibitPrep for stamping.
Privacy & Security Considerations
ExhibitPrep Processes Locally
Files never leave your device. All stamping happens in your browser using local processing. No cloud storage, no server uploads.
Remove Password = Edit Permission
Removing password protection is necessary for stamping but requires owner permission. Only unlock documents you have legal right to modify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't ExhibitPrep stamp password-protected PDFs?
PDF encryption prevents any software (including ExhibitPrep) from modifying the document. This is a security feature built into the PDF format. To add exhibit stamps, the password must be removed first, which requires the document owner's permission and the correct password.
Will removing the password compromise security?
Only if you share the unlocked version publicly. ExhibitPrep processes files locally in your browser—nothing is uploaded to external servers. After stamping, you can re-add password protection if needed. For court submissions, exhibits are typically unencrypted since judges and opposing counsel need access.
What if I don't know the password?
You cannot remove password protection without the correct password. Contact the document provider (client, opposing counsel, bank, etc.) and request an unlocked version or the password. Explain that you need to add exhibit stamps for court filing. Most providers will accommodate legitimate legal requests.
Can I re-add password protection after stamping?
Yes. After stamping in ExhibitPrep, open the stamped PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro and use Tools → Protect → Encrypt with Password. However, most court filings require unencrypted PDFs for accessibility. Check your jurisdiction's rules before re-encrypting.
Are there online tools to unlock PDFs?
Yes, but use caution. Online PDF unlocking services require uploading your sensitive documents to third-party servers, creating privacy and security risks. Prefer local methods (Preview on Mac, Acrobat on Windows) to keep files on your device. Only use reputable online services for non-sensitive documents.
Does ExhibitPrep store my documents?
No. ExhibitPrep processes PDFs entirely in your browser using local processing. Files never leave your device until you explicitly download the stamped version. Nothing is stored on ExhibitPrep's servers. This ensures maximum privacy for sensitive legal documents.