How to secure generated PDF to prohibit modification in external PDF application

By Frans Hoeks partner, Created 13-NOV-2017, last editted 6-DEC-2021

Hi there,

I have a scenario in which I generate and regenerate a PDF file base upon a specific status.

Based on the status (for example: Concept) the PDF background that I defined in the PDF Template (stylesheet) has a "Draft" watermark on it. When status is updated to "final" de PDF will regenerate with an background without the watermark.

We have noticed that it is possible to edit the generated PDF file in and external program (for example Adobe Acrobat), and to remove the background of the PDF file.

Question: Is it possible to generate a PDF file that can't be modified afterwards with external tools?

Hi there,
I have a scenario in which I generate and regenerate a PDF file base upon a specific status.
Based on the status (for example: Concept) the PDF background that I defined in the PDF Template (stylesheet) has a "Draft" watermark on it. When status is updated to "final" de PDF will regenerate with an background without the watermark.
We have noticed that it is possible to edit the generated PDF file in and external program (for example Adobe Acrobat), and to remove the background of the PDF file. 
Question: Is it possible to generate a PDF file that can't be modified afterwards with external tools?