How to fix a document that claims that it has been modified when filling out a form

Report · Mar 07, 2016

I recently started having issues with some forms provided by the Govt. After editing the the accessible fields of the form and saving it, an error pops up when reopening it. After a error dialog for a missing dict object pops up I get this message:

This document enabled extended features in Adobe Reader. The document has been changed since it was created

It appears on both Reader & Pro. It seems to be spreading. I have a couple documents that didn't have issues until the document was reopened form entries revised. I recently had a online chat with a support tech that told me

"I am sorry as the file is created by using Adobe live cycle Designer ES 9.0 so you won't be able to fill out any fields in Acrobat pro DC"

So Fed agencies (DHS, IRS, etc.. ) are using adobe products incorrectly?

What needs to be done to prevent this issue and correct it?

Windows 10 / Acrobat DC Pro & Reader DC

Thanks

Report · Mar 07, 2016

The reason for this can be hard to track down. When a document is Reader-enabled like the ones you're working with are, a digital signature is included in the document. This digital signature is used to detect when the document has been changed in a way that's not allowed. CHanges that are can be allowed include filing in form fields, digitally signing, adding attachments, and adding comments. Changes that aren't allowed include hacking the document in an attempt to modify the usage rights.

Sometimes changes can be made to the document that cause the signature validation to fail and you get the message you're seeing. Such changes could be due to a bug in Reader/Acrobat, due to corruption of the PDF that Acrobat/Reader try to automatically correct, or other things. Without seeing the original form and doing some testing, it's impossible to say what the source of the problem is. The statement made by the Adobe support person you talked to is not generally correct.

Can you post a link to one of the original of one of the forms you're having trouble with?

Report · Mar 08, 2016

I cannot post the pdfs since they contain ppl's personal info. If you could tell me what information you need from the document Ill extract it and post it here.

Thanks!

Report · Mar 08, 2016

I was asking about the original blank forms that are distributed by the government agencies, not ones that have been filled-in.

Report · Mar 10, 2016

This is the form from the gov: http://www.terminuservices.com/download/i-130.pdf