Error saving PDF using FIPS

[riewerrk]

All,

I am currently trying to use an old (2011) PDF form that was generated using Password Security.  Our network requires the use of FIPS which will not allow me to make any changes to this form and save my work.

I am required to fill out this form, digitally sign the document and send it on to the next individual for their review and digital signature.

Is there anyway to accomplish this or will I have to generate a new form that does not use Password Security which is not allowed using FIPS?

Thanks in advance.

Additional Info:

Version: Adobe Acrobat Reader DC 2019.008.20081

Security Method: Password Security

Encryption Level: 128 bit AES

FIPS enabled

V/r,

[George_Johnson]

This might help: FIPS Compliance — Acrobat Application Security Guide

[riewerrk]

George,

Thank you for the link.  I have looked over the FIPS mode changes.  I understand that I can not use any documents that have been created using Password Enabled Security measures.

I am trying to find out if there is a way to sign this document (I believe the answer is no if FIPS is enabled due to the Password Security).  And if the answer is no, is there any other way to use this document or do I have to throw it out and re-create it using a different form of security?

Thanks

[George_Johnson · Accepted solution]

I think you'd have to first remove the password security. You'd need the password for this. You'd then have an unsecured document that and could use FIPS -compatible certificate-based security and digital signatures. If you're not able to remove the password security somehow, it would seem you're out-of-luck and would have to recreate the form.

[riewerrk]

George,

That's what I'm thinking I will have to do.  Do you have a good way of rebuilding a document?  Do I have to start from the ground up or is there a way to use the old form that you know of?

[George_Johnson]

If I were doing this, I'd use software that I have that removes password security and then work with the unsecured version, but only if I had the right/permission to do so.

[riewerrk]

George,

I do have permission to change this form.  I just didn't create it.  I wasn't aware there is software to remove the password security.  Is this Adobe Pro or a third party application?  Thanks for the assist!

V/r,

[George_Johnson]

Third party. They don't like people talking about it here for some reason, so I'll have to avoid specifics. In my many years of working with PDF, there have been plenty of occasions where using such software has been entirely legitimate. You'd need to know the password with Acrobat or any other Adobe software to remove password security.

[wilhelmnl]

You should be able to use Adobe Reader to complete and sign forms, the problem seems to be with Pro.