BugWP logo BugWP
Back to Community
Home / Community / Plugin → Pdf embedder

Why Your PDF Embedder Secure Files Aren't Working and How to Fix It

29 threads Sep 16, 2025 Plugin → Pdf embedder

Content

Users often install the PDF Embedder Secure plugin to protect their documents, only to find that the security features don't seem to be working as expected. This can be a frustrating experience, especially when you've taken steps to secure your content. This guide will explain the common reasons behind this issue and provide steps to resolve it.

Why This Happens

The PDF Embedder Secure plugin works by encrypting the document's delivery to the browser and storing the original PDF in a protected directory on your server. If the security appears to be broken, the cause is typically not a stolen license key but rather one of a few common configuration or version issues.

Common Solutions

1. Verify Your Plugin Version

A critical first step is to confirm you are using the correct plugin. The standard PDF Embedder Premium plugin does not include security features to block direct URL access. For that functionality, you must have the PDF Embedder Secure plugin installed and activated. If you purchased the wrong version, you may need to upgrade.

2. Check Your License Status

An expired or invalid license can sometimes cause issues with plugin functionality. While a stolen key won't break your site, an out-of-date plugin might. To check your license status, you will need to contact the PDF Embedder team directly via email at [email protected] with the email address or license key used for purchase.

3. Locate Your Original Files

If you are locked out of your PDFs after a license expires, don't panic. The plugin does not modify or hold your original files hostage. All documents are stored intact on your server. You can access them directly via your web host's file manager or FTP. They are located in the directory:
/wp-content/uploads/securepdfs/
You may need to look in subdirectories within this folder. The plugin uses a server configuration file (.htaccess) to block direct access, but the original .pdf files are there and can be moved or downloaded.

4. Understand the Limits of "Download Off"

Using the download="off" attribute in a shortcode only hides the download button within the viewer. It does not prevent a technically savvy user from finding the source file in the page's code. True protection against direct URL access is only provided by the PDF Embedder Secure plugin's encryption method.

When to Seek Further Help

If you have confirmed you are using the Secure version and your license is active, the problem could be related to a server configuration or a plugin conflict. In these cases, your best course of action is to email the PDF Embedder support team at [email protected] with specific details about your site for further diagnosis.

Related Support Threads Support