Hidden data, tracked changes, etc., in PDFs?

[Jennifer]

Hi,

I’m wondering if anyone knows how safe it is to distribute Word
documents that have been converted to PDF if those documents contain
hidden data, metadata, tracked changes, and/or comments that you do
not want people to be able to view.

I’m dealing with an older version of Word (2002).

Also is there any difference depending on how the PDF was created (by
'printing' it or going through the Adobe PDF menu)?

I'd like to avoid this type of situation:
http://mashable.com/2007/05/18/joosts-deal-plans-hidden-in-pdf-presentation/

Thanks,
Jennifer

 

[grammatim]

If it's not visible when you "print" your pdf, then it's not in the
pdf.

 

[PamC via OfficeKB.com]

They are as safe as you care to make them. Any time you deliver electronic
files, you must be aware of hidden data issues and work to eliminate them.
Many of these issues come down to carelessness--not removing or
standardizing document properties, for example, or in the instance you cite,
covering but not eliminating sensitive text. Still, documents converted to
pdfs are generally considered to contain less hidden information than native
files. You are more likely find more specific information at a pdf newsgroup.


BTW, the Remove Hidden Data tool for Office 2003 and Office XP (
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/834427), which can be used to clear certain
types of hidden data from Office documents, also works with W2002.

PamC