Question 1

Is sharing PDFs really free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, usage is completely free. No registration is required, there are no hidden costs, and PDFs are generated without watermarks. More information can be found here: ilovepdf.com/en/help/security

Question 2

Are my files stored after upload or automatically deleted?

Accepted Answer

All files you upload are protected during the entire processing. They are used exclusively to create your desired output file (e.g., PDF file), and all data is always transmitted encrypted.

If you do not delete them manually, the system automatically and permanently deletes your files after no later than 2 hours. This prevents any access by third parties. There is no permanent storage. More information can be found here: ilovepdf.com/en/help/legal

Question 3

Am I allowed to unlock every PDF or are there legal restrictions?

Accepted Answer

No, not every PDF may be unlocked. You may only unlock PDFs for which you have the rights or the password, e.g., your own documents, internal files, or PDFs whose password you have forgotten.

iLovePDF therefore only removes protection from legally authorized files. The tool is not intended to bypass security on third-party documents. Legally, the user remains responsible for compliance with all regulations.

Question 4

How does unlocking a PDF work on iLovePDF?

Accepted Answer

You upload a protected PDF and enter the correct password (if required). If a valid password is in the document, iLovePDF removes writing, printing, or copying protection and creates an unprotected version.

The file remains otherwise unchanged. You can then edit, print, or share it freely. The new version is immediately available for download.

Question 5

Does "Unlock PDF" also work on mobile, tablet, Mac, or PC?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use the Mobile App for free on your phone at ilovepdf.com/en/mobile (iOS / Android). The tool also works directly in the web browser on your phone and tablet.

Another option is to convert your documents offline , that is not via the online service, but locally on your device. This option is available for Mac and Windows: ilovepdf.com/en/desktop You can also download the iLovePDF app from the Microsoft Store.

Question 6

What if I forgot my PDF password?

Accepted Answer

If the document is truly password-protected (Owner/Permissions Password), iLovePDF can remove the protection once you enter the correct password.

However, if an Open/User Password is set and you don’t know it, the PDF cannot be unlocked for legal and technical reasons. Such documents are encrypted and strictly require the owner's password. Without this password, the PDF remains encrypted.

Question 7

Can I unlock a PDF that only restricts printing or copying?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many PDFs come with so-called “Permissions Restrictions” that prevent users from printing, copying, or editing. These restrictions can be removed once you know the password or if the document belongs to you. iLovePDF creates a fully unprotected version that can be used freely.

Question 8

Why can’t iLovePDF unlock certain files?

Accepted Answer

There are several reasons:
1. The document has a User/Open password that you don’t know.
2. It is protected with strong encryption without a known password.
3. The PDF has been digitally signed or certified, so changes are technically blocked.
4. You don’t have permission to unlock the document.

Unlock PDF

Remove writing, printing, or copying protection. Unlock and use with password.

Short 2-step Video Tutorial

Instructions

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Support

Privacy & Security (GDPR)