How to password protect files on your computer

ramsac password protection   419970328

Putting password protection in place on your computer files is a good habit to get into, particularly if you are working with sensitive information. The additional layer of encryption can be enough to deter cybercriminals from trying to access data, plus, it gives you added peace of mind that you have done as much as you can to stay protected. Read on to find out how to password protect your documents on various digital programs.

How to password protect a PDF document

Adobe’s PDF (Portable Document Format) documents are widely favoured in the business world – in part because they are more difficult to edit, and because they are compatible with most devices.

They are often used for letters and forms which require a digital signature, such as employee contracts, and therefore, they often contain sensitive information. PDFs can be password protected by following these steps:

1. From an open PDF, go to ‘File’, then ‘Properties’, then select the ‘Security’

password protect a pdf

2. Open the drop-down menu next to ‘Security Method’ and select ‘Password Security

password protect a pdf

3. In the window that appears, tick the box next to ‘Require a password to open the document’, then enter the password you wish to use in the box

password protect a pdf

Remember, you should not use the same password that you use for other platforms or accounts, particularly if you will be sharing the PDF (and therefore the password to access it) with others.

How to password protect a Word document

Microsoft Word remains one of the most popular document formats in the world. It’s commonly used in businesses, education, and for personal use.

It can be advantageous to protect Word documents with passwords if you are using Word for anything private. For instance, from HR-sensitive information, such as minutes from a disciplinary hearing, to a personal diary.

Fortunately, it’s very simple to password protect a Word document:

1. From an open Word document, go to ‘File’, then ‘Info’, then select ‘Protect Document

password protect a word doc

2. In the drop-down box, select ‘Encrypt with password’

password protect a word doc

3. Enter the password you wish to use in the window that appears. You will be asked to do this twice.

password protect a word doc

How to password protect your Excel workbook

In business, some of the most sensitive data is stored in Excel spreadsheets. In HR and payroll departments, Excel is frequently used to process employee information such as salary, bonuses, time off, and even personal details such as addresses and bank details.

In other departments, Excel is widely used to store a range of information, from contact details to lists of passwords. If Excel is used in any of these ways in your company, it’s wise to ensure that the relevant Excel spreadsheets are password protected.

As another Microsoft platform, passwords can be added to protect Excel documents in the same way as a Word document:

1. From an open spreadsheet go to ‘File’, then ‘Info’, then select ‘Protect Document

password protect in excel

2. In the drop-down box, select ‘Encrypt with password’

password protect in excel

3. Enter the password you wish to use in the window that appears. You will be asked to do this twice.

password protect in excel

Passwords are one of the most important defence mechanisms that computer users have against cybercriminals. While it’s the business of a cyber-criminal to hack into software and programs that are password-protected, the more layers of security there are, the harder it becomes for them to succeed.

Related Posts

  • Social Engineering: The 7 most common tricks cybercriminals use (and how to stop them)

    Social Engineering: The 7 most common tricks cybercriminals use (and how to stop them)

    Cybersecurity

    Discover the top 7 social engineering tricks cybercriminals use to manipulate people into giving away sensitive information, and learn practical steps to protect yourself and your organisation from these [...]

    Read article

  • Protect your organisation with secure+ from ramsac

    Protect your organisation with secure+ from ramsac

    Cybersecurity

    Protect your organisation from evolving cyber threats with ramsac's secure+ A proactive monitoring solution designed to safeguard your systems, data, and reputation. [...]

    Read article

  • All you need to know about software vulnerabilities

    All you need to know about software vulnerabilities

    CybersecurityTechnical Blog

    Understanding software vulnerabilities is crucial for staying protected in an ever-evolving cyber landscape, where unpatched weaknesses can open the door to serious security threats for individuals and organisations alike. [...]

    Read article

  • Why your printer might be the biggest security risk in your office

    Why your printer might be the biggest security risk in your office

    Cybersecurity

    Think your office printer is harmless? Think again. Printers store data, connect to networks, and often have default passwords that cyber criminals love. Don't let your weakest link be the [...]

    Read article

  • The importance of cybersecurity contingency planning for businesses

    The importance of cybersecurity contingency planning for businesses

    Cybersecurity

    Protect your data from cybercriminals and minimise downtime with an effective cybersecurity contingency plan. Read on. [...]

    Read article

  • How to Spot a Scam HMRC Letter 

    How to Spot a Scam HMRC Letter 

    Cybersecurity

    Learn how to spot fraudulent communications, like fake HMRC letters, and take steps to protect your personal information and finances from scammers. [...]

    Read article

Quiz yourself

Are you more cyber savvy than an 11 year old?

11-14 year olds get asked these questions in school. Could you get these right?