PURPOSE Password protection can reduce unauthorized access to a document, but it is not a complete security plan. STEPS Use the document application's password or encryption feature, choose a strong password, and save a protected copy. SHARING THE PASSWORD Do not send the password in the same email as the protected file. Use a separate trusted channel. LIMITATIONS Some protection only prevents editing, not viewing. Confirm the protection type before relying on it. BEST PRACTICE Use secure file sharing and permissions when available instead of relying only on document passwords.