How It Works Under the Hood
pdf-lib parses the AcroForm dictionary to list active form controls, then calls form.flatten() to convert interactive widget annotations into static page content (or offers a 180 DPI print-raster lock mode).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Upload any filled AcroForm PDF (e.g. tax forms, HR agreements, onboarding forms).
Review the detected interactive field list and choose Vector Flatten or Maximum Print Lock.
Optionally strip PDF metadata and download your locked read-only PDF.
Key Features & Performance
- Vector Form Flattening: Freezes inputs cleanly while preserving selectable text and small file size
- Maximum Lock Mode: Optional 180 DPI full-page print rasterization for maximum tamper resistance
- Interactive Field Inspector: Lists exact form field names and types before flattening
- Metadata Sanitizer: Clears Author, Title, and Creator fields in one click
Local Browser Processing & Privacy
Traditional web converters upload your documents, snippets, or media files to remote servers. PDF Form Flattener (Lock Editable Fields) runs inside your browser tab:
Your input text and files are processed locally without uploading payloads to a processing server.
Microdeck does not log or store the files or inputs you paste into tool workspaces (normal static hosting/CDN requests still load page assets).
Working outputs stay in your browser tab and are released when you reset the tool or close the tab.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PDF Form Flattener and PDF Redactor?
PDF Form Flattener preserves the visible filled values while locking editable input widgets so nobody can change your answers. PDF Redactor permanently blacks out and destroys confidential text regions.
Which mode should I choose for government or bank submissions?
Vector Form Flatten keeps text crisp and files lightweight, while Maximum Lock works best if a recipient system breaks interactive widgets or scripts.
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