How to restrict pdf files from copying and editing

[liuc63200477]

Hi, I am planning to sell PDF artwork online so my customers will be able to download and print files at home. I have set a password for my pdf files in Indesign to restrict editing. When I drag and drop the pdf file in Illustrator, it requires entering a password which is very good. However, it isn’t working with Preview (mac)! When I open Preview, there’s a thumbnail on the left bar where I can still drag and drop my work in Illustrator with all the layers. Does anyone know how to fix that? Thank you!!

[Steve Werner · Accepted solution]

I'm afraid that trying to secure a PDF file so it can't be edited is a hopeless endeavor. There is no way to do it. There are hundreds of PDF readers, many of which ignore the password. There are also lots of utilities on the Internet which will allow anyone to open a PDF file. 

[Geоrge]

>> I'm afraid that trying to secure a PDF file so it can't be edited is a hopeless endeavor. 

Steve is right. Even if you think that he not right — somewhere Russian hackers thinks as Steve.

https://www.elcomsoft.com/apdfpr.html

[BobLevine]

Um, what's the point here?

Steve is right...the only way to protect a PDF is to not share it.