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How to Unlock a PDF File Before Emailing It on Windows and Mac
Question details
The user needs to remove a system lock on a completed PDF job application so that the file can be attached and sent via email.
- Product
- Device & OS
- Windows, macOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to attach and email a completed PDF form, such as a job application.
- Observed behavior
- The PDF file is locked and cannot be emailed, but the PDF reader does not prompt for a password when the file is opened.
Ensure you have the necessary administrative privileges on your computer and are authorized to modify the file properties of the PDF document.
Remove the File Lock on macOS
Use this method if you are using a Mac and the PDF has been locked at the system level.
When a PDF does not prompt for a password upon opening but still cannot be attached to an email, macOS may have locked the file properties to prevent changes.
Open the Finder app on your Mac and navigate to the folder containing the locked PDF job application.
Click on the PDF file once to highlight it, then go to the top menu bar and select 'File', followed by 'Get Info'. Alternatively, press 'Command + I' on your keyboard.
In the 'General' section of the Info window, locate the 'Locked' checkbox and uncheck it to remove the system restriction.
Modify File Properties on Windows
If you are using Windows, the file might have restrictive permissions or be marked as read-only.
Manage, Edit, and Share PDFs Effortlessly with WPS Office
If you frequently work with PDF job applications or secure documents, WPS Office provides an intuitive PDF reader and editor to effortlessly manage file properties, remove document-level restrictions, and email files directly from the application.
- 1. Open the PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your completed PDF job application.
- 2. Manage Permissions: Navigate to the 'Protect' tab to view, add, or remove any document-level encryption.
- 3. Share via Email: Click on the 'Menu' button, select 'Share', and choose 'Email' to quickly attach the unlocked PDF to a new outgoing message.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PDF say it is locked but doesn't ask for a password?
This usually indicates that the file is locked by your operating system's file properties rather than by PDF-specific encryption. You can resolve this by modifying the file's 'Get Info' settings on Mac or 'Properties' on Windows.
How do I know if a PDF is protected by standard PDF security instead of an OS lock?
If a PDF is protected by document-level security, your PDF reader will typically prompt you for an open password immediately upon opening the file, or it will display a 'Secured' status in the application's title bar.
Can I remove a PDF password if I am not the original owner?
You can only remove a password or restriction from a PDF if you have the right to modify it and know the current permissions password. Without the password, legitimate PDF software will not allow you to bypass document-level encryption.
