Watermark
A semi-transparent text or image overlaid on every page of a PDF — used to mark drafts, indicate ownership, or discourage unauthorized copying.
A watermark is a text or image layer placed over (or under) the main content of a PDF. It appears on every page and is usually semi-transparent so it doesn't obstruct the underlying content but is clearly visible.
Common uses
- Draft indicators — stamping "DRAFT" or "CONFIDENTIAL" across a document in review
- Copyright / ownership — marking photographs, illustrations, or creative work with the author's name
- Anti-sharing friction — adding "Licensed to Jane Doe" on every page so copies can be traced
- Status labels — "APPROVED", "FOR REVIEW ONLY", "DO NOT DISTRIBUTE"
Watermarks are not security
A watermark is a visual deterrent, not a technical protection. Anyone with a PDF editor can remove or obscure a watermark. For documents where you need real protection:
- Use password protection to require a password to open
- Use redaction to permanently remove content (not just cover it)
- Use flattening to lock form fields and annotations
Tools
- Watermark PDF stamps a customizable text watermark — position, color, opacity, rotation, and tile mode all configurable.