How to Set a PDF Expiry Date? Safe and Easy Way
Why Set Expiration Date on a PDF?
- Because PDF files do not have an option to set PDF expiry data by default.
- Once a PDF is downloaded by another user, they can open it anytime.
- People can misuse your confidential or sensitive data if you do not set PDF expiry date.
- While sharing the file, the user does not have the option to control how long the PDF is shared or accessed.
- Expiry dates help users to stop unauthorized sharing of documents and automatically stop the PDF after a fixed time.
- It keeps all important files safe and under control.
- This feature is useful for business files, legal documents, and confidential data.
Easy Manual Methods to Set PDF Expiry Date
Here are easy and practical ways to set PDF expiry date, including online and offline methods, so you can choose the safest option.
Method 1: Script Code to Insert Expire Date in PDF
There is no fixed solution available from Adobe Acrobat to set expiration dates on PDF files.
Many people try to add an expiration date to a PDF file using a Node.js script, but this method is neither secure nor reliable.
Top Reasons Not to Use Node.js Script to Add Expiry Date to PDF
- PDF expiration scripts do not provide real security.
- Anyone can easily disable the script.
- Not compatible with numerous platforms, especially with mobile phones.
- The script-based expiry does not work properly on macOS, and PDFs can still be opened.
- Users can edit the PDF metadata and remove script-based restrictions easily
Method 2: Using Adobe Acrobat Pro for Protect PDF
- Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
- Then, go to Protect > Encrypt with Password.
- Here, set a password for opening the file.
- Before sharing the file, inform users that the password works only until a certain date.
- After that, you can change the password so the PDF becomes inaccessible.
Limitations of Manual Methods
- They do not have a built-in “expiry date” feature.
- While using scripts gives you false security, because it is very easy to unlock.
- Adobe Acrobat Pro does not have a feature to automatically block the PDF on the expiration date.
- Users do not have the option to select a particular date.
- Users have to manually change or remove the password after that expiry date.
- You are just manually controlling access with a password.
Professional Offline Tool to Set PDF Expiry Date
BitRecover PDF Buddy Wizard is a professional and reliable solution designed to set PDF expiry date with multiple advanced options. The software offers a smooth and user-friendly graphical interface, making it easy to use for both technical and non-technical users while still doing all its tasks smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide for the Pro tool
- Open the software and install it.
- Next, the user can upload the PDF file using “Add File” and “Add Folder” as per the requirement.
- Afterward, the software will give you a preview option and an option to select the files in the panel.
- Now, select the required option to “Set PDF Expiry Date” and use the settings.
- Afterward, select the required date, and select a destination path to store data files.
- Click the “Start” button to set the expiration date on the PDF documents.
Advanced features of the Professional tool
- The user can easily set expiry date on PDF so that it will automatically stop at a fixed time.
- The tools allow users to set expiry dates, whether it is a single file or multiple PDF files, without the file size limitation.
- While using the dual mode options, users can easily upload single PDF files and entire folders and save time and effort.
- As this software works in the offline mode, all the confidential and legal documents stay safe on your system.
- While using this tool, you do not need Adobe Acrobat or any third-party software.
- The interface of this is a simple and intuitive design that makes it easy for both technical and non-technical users.
- Fully compatible with all versions of Windows, such as 11, 10, 8, 7, and earlier versions (32-bit & 64-bit).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q) Can I make a PDF expire automatically?
Yes, you can set a PDF to expire by using script-based methods or a professional automated desktop tool. However, scripts also have limitations. The best option is an automated offline solution that allows you to set a fixed expiry date for single or multiple PDF files in bulk.
Q) How Do I Open an Expired PDF?
If a PDF file expires, there is no solution to view its content. You can contact the PDF file owner to extend the limit and share the file again.
Q) How can I add an expiry date to a PDF document?
There are three common ways available to add an expiry date to a PDF file:
- Node.js Script
- Adobe Acrobat Pro.
- Automated Professional Software
Q) What is the best way to set an expiry date on a PDF?
Using an automated offline PDF expiry tool is the best method. It allows users to set a fixed expiry date, and also works without internet access, and is compatible to supports bulk files.
Conclusion
Setting an expiry date on PDF files is a smart way to control their confidential data. Manual methods like scripts or password protection have limitations and do not offer a secure solution. For better control and security, a professional offline tool is the best option. It allows you to set a fixed expiry date for one or multiple PDF files without internet access.