When it comes to securing your PDF files, adding a watermark is the most basic thing to do. Oftentimes, businesses, academics, and organizations use this method in safeguarding their PDF files. In essence, a watermark is an added layer over a file, which could be in the form of a text, symbol, or an image. In the event that a file gets leaked, a watermark makes it easier to trace how it happened.
However, adding a watermark is not just slapping a symbol over your file. There are still things that you need to consider before placing one on your PDFs. Whether you are adding a watermark for your soft copies or for your PDF files that are yet to be printed, here are the things that you should and shouldn’t do when watermarking your PDF files.
Adjust the opacity of your watermark
If you’re putting a watermark over the texts of your PDF file, it is best to make sure that your watermark does not clash with it. Most especially if you’re using an image or symbol with more than one color. You wouldn’t want the viewer of the file to have a hard time skimming through the file. In a similar way, you don’t want the watermark to be too light to read. It is best if the image or text is still clear when you add watermark to PDF.
Keep it simple
The saying ‘less is more’ is applicable when you are watermarking your files. If your file is confidential, a simple ‘CONFIDENTIAL’ text across the PDF file should suffice. Refrain using fonts that are too distracting like ones that are in cursive, like the Joker font or even Comic Sans. Easy to read fonts like Helvetica and Arial can be used when typing a watermark. When it comes to image watermarks, make sure that the colors of the image don’t clash with the contents of your PDF. Better if the symbol or image is one-toned.
As much as possible, use your business logo or name
If the point of the watermark is legally claiming ownership, then you should go all out. Use your name or business logo when watermarking your PDF files. In the aspect of legal claims, adding a simple ‘Do Not Copy,’ ‘Copyrighted,’ or ‘Don’t Plagiarize’ does not hold any bearing. Plus, you will have a hard time defending that the PDF file is actually yours if you don’t be specific with your watermarks.
Strategically place your watermark to your PDF
When positioning your watermark, it is best if you layer it over the contents of the file. Refrain from putting them at the edges of your PDF. Doing such a thing could still be subject to getting stolen. Another person could just simply crop or cut out the watermark. When that happens, you could entirely lose claim over your file. When using a text-based watermark, place it vertically so it doesn’t distract the viewers of the file.
Watermark your PDF files with PDFBear
Watermarking your PDF files shouldn’t be a burden. There are software or applications that you can download and use to get the job done. However, if you are looking for a more efficient way to do it without consuming a lot of your time, then you’re in luck! You can rely on PDFBear to get the job done in seconds! PDFBear is a secured, web-based online tool for all your PDF needs. It is compatible with any operating system and you can use it anytime, anywhere for free! To use the watermark tool, simply go to the PDFBear website. Choose ‘Add Watermark’ and wait for the server to redirect you. Upload or drag and drop the PDF file that you want to watermark. Add the text or image then customize it. Once done, click Add Watermark to finalize everything. You can now download your file with watermarks or share it with other people using the shareable link generated by PDFBear.
See how simple it is? PDBear will not ask you for your personal information when you use their basic features. The server will also wipe out all processed files after one hour. This means that your files are not at risk of getting leaked or illegally distributed. When it comes to safeguarding your PDF files, PDFBear is the most trusted website to use for watermarking your files. Use this article as a guide whenever you need to watermark a PDF file.