How to Make Completed PDF Fields View-Only in Adobe Sign
Question details
The user wants to prevent recipients from modifying previously filled PDF form fields while still allowing them to add their signatures to the document.
- Product
- Adobe Sign
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Sending a completed PDF form to a client or colleague for an electronic signature without allowing them to alter the pre-filled data.
- Observed behavior
- The recipient is currently able to edit the existing fillable form fields when they receive the document for signature.
Before proceeding, ensure you have saved a backup copy of your original fillable PDF locally, as some methods of securing fields (like flattening) will permanently remove your ability to edit the form data.
Flatten Completed Form Fields Before Uploading
Flattening the PDF merges the interactive form fields with the document's background. This turns your entered data into uneditable text while allowing you to add fresh signature fields in Adobe Sign.
This is the most secure method to ensure that data remains intact. By uploading a flattened document to Adobe Sign, the platform treats the original text as a flat image, eliminating any risk of the signer modifying the underlying form values.
Open your completed PDF form in a PDF viewer or editor (such as Adobe Acrobat, WPS PDF, or your web browser).
Navigate to 'File' and select 'Print', or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+P (Windows) / Cmd+P (Mac).
In the printer selection dropdown, choose 'Microsoft Print to PDF', 'Save as PDF', or an equivalent virtual PDF printer.
Click 'Print' and choose a destination to save this new file. The resulting PDF is now flattened.
Upload this newly flattened PDF into Adobe Sign, then drag and drop the required signature fields for your recipient.
Configure Field Assignments and Properties in Adobe Sign
If you are creating or mapping the form directly within Adobe Sign, you can set specific properties so that pre-filled fields are read-only for the recipient.
Flatten and Protect PDFs with WPS PDF
WPS Office offers a powerful built-in PDF tool that lets you easily flatten fillable forms, set editing restrictions, and prepare documents securely before sending them for signatures.
- 1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your filled PDF form.
- 2. Access protection features: Navigate to the 'Protect' tab located on the top ribbon.
- 3. Restrict editing: Click on 'Encrypt' or 'Restrict Editing' and set a permissions password to disable document modification.
- 4. Alternatively, flatten via print: Go to 'Menu' > 'Print', select 'Export to PDF', and save to create a flattened, uneditable version of your form.
- 5. Save and share: Save your newly protected document and safely upload it to your preferred e-signature platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to flatten a PDF form?
Flattening a PDF form permanently merges the interactive elements (like text boxes, dropdowns, and checkboxes) with the main visual layer of the document. Once flattened, the form fields are no longer fillable or editable, turning your inputs into standard document text.
Can I unflatten a PDF once it has been saved?
No, flattening is generally a permanent action. Once the file is flattened and saved, the interactive fields cannot be restored. It is always recommended to save a copy of the original fillable PDF before flattening it.
Why are my Adobe Sign recipients able to edit my text fields?
If form fields are assigned to 'Anyone' or specifically to the current signer without a 'Read-Only' condition, Adobe Sign will leave them open for interaction. You must either assign those fields to 'Prefill' prior to sending or flatten the document beforehand.
