Can my end user password-protect a document that has been digitally signed?

[thefourthwall]

Hello,

I have seen some threads that indirectly address parts of this question, but am still left unsure about whether this process can be done - and if it can, I could use your help in understanding how to apply it - thank you.

Two of our end users use digital signatures (certificate-based) in Acrobat 9 Pro to sign documents attesting the accuracy & calibration status of lab equipment for use in a legal environment. These end users are concerned that their documents could be altered or edited, and asked me if password protection can also be applied to their documents that need to be digitally signed.

Thank you in advance,

thefourthwall

 

[thefourthwall]

...surprised at how inactive this forum is...

 

[spamjim]

Why would you be surprised at this point? There were only 3 other posts this year. Your best bet is to go to the Adobe user forums.

Sign a document and reopen it to see the alert message: "You are currently viewing a signed version. All editing and interactive features are disabled..." Why would one need a password too?

 

[thefourthwall]

Appreciate the reply, you make a good point re: volume of posts. Did go to the Adobe user forums and got the answer.

Yes, that is true. However - management is a bit paranoid currently - many employees got let go recently due to ethical violations and the organization is trying to "tie everything down" so to speak... hence their motivation in this case.

 

[spamjim]

Document signatures will always be suspect. People forge signatures on paper all the time. If computers are shared among different users, you may find opportunity for exploits as well.

There are different PDF document signing methods. Be sure to use a strong signing method.