What is the safest way to add page numbers to password-protected PDF files?

[adamnicoles]

I need to add page numbers to some protected PDF documents. I know the password, but I want to avoid damaging the file formatting or losing existing PDF settings. Has anyone used a reliable method or tool that can handle encrypted PDF files and still give a preview before saving?

[alxenderjhony]

If you want the safest way to add page numbers to password-protected PDFs, I highly recommend staying away from free online websites. Uploading your secure files or typing your passwords into web-based platforms is a huge privacy risk because you don't know where your data is being stored.
The most secure method is to use a local desktop utility that works completely offline. I found that Softaken PDF Numbering Software is perfect for this. It helps you to smoothly add numbering or bates on your PDF files. It is simple and easy to use. Moreover, no internet need to use this tool