Programs for restricting PDF files, other than Adobe Acrobat

[stanleystf]

I don't have a Macbook, yet. I'm doing research about programs on Mac.

I need a program that would allow me to restrict editing of PDF files and make them read-only so when I send them for people on mac, windows and phones, they can't edit or copy the text.

I already know about Adobe Acrobat which is very expensive. I also heard from a friend that Mac OS has a built-in feature that would allow users to put restrictions on PDF files and when the restricted file is sent for Windows users, they can actually edit the text.

So, I have some questions:

1. How reliable is Mac's built-in feature compared with Acrobat? Does it work when I send the file for Windows users? Could someone please restrict a PDF file with that feature and share it here?

2. What other programs are there for restricting PDF files on Mac?

 

[Applescrumpy]

Apple's built-in Preview application allows to prevent editing using password protection. With the file ion select File => Edit permissions... and you will be presented with a dialogue box. Untick the appropriate boxes and enter a complicated password. Then save the file.

 

[stanleystf]

Apple's built-in Preview application allows to prevent editing using password protection. With the file ion select File => Edit permissions... and you will be presented with a dialogue box. Untick the appropriate boxes and enter a complicated password. Then save the file.

Could you please do this for a PDF file and then send it here? I want to check it on my Windows device.

 

[stanleystf]

File attached - the password is fred.

Great! I won't be needing Acrobat, then!

 

[Applescrumpy]

Here's a smaller file to try out.