Password-protected PDFs used to be our default for “secure” design sharing. They technically work, but they strip away interactivity, comments, and any sense of real collaboration. Crypto keeps everything live while still satisfying security requirements.

Real-time beats static files

With Crypto, reviewers see the actual Figma prototype or presentation. They can interact with flows and leave feedback without downloading anything. PDFs freeze the work in time and require resending files for every change.

Security posture

Crypto encrypts the share link, enforces passwords, adds watermarks if needed, and logs every view. Password-protected PDFs rely on the honor system once the file leaves your hands; if someone forwards it, you lose control.

When PDFs still play a role

If a client’s firewall blocks external links entirely, a password-protected PDF might be the only option. For everyone else, Crypto provides more security and a better review experience.

If you care about both control and collaboration, Crypto wins this comparison by a mile.

Audit trails vs. guesswork

Crypto gives you timestamps, IP information, and user identities for every access. Try getting that from a PDF—you can’t. When security teams ask for proof, Crypto’s logs tell the whole story. PDFs leave you shrugging.

Productivity boost

Because Crypto keeps prototypes interactive, you avoid exporting dozens of flat screens after every change. That’s hours back each week, and stakeholders always review the freshest state of the project. Password-protected PDFs simply can’t keep up.