Skip navigation
Jdedes
Jdedes
Currently Being Moderated

How secure is encrypted PDF files?

Dec 20, 2011 11:15 PM

Tags: #pdf #encryption #secured

I am encrypting my PDF Files using "enrypt all document content & require a password to open the document" feature.

Which one is more secured and how secured is it?

i) Encrypted Pdf files using the above feature

ii) Unencrypted pdf files saved in a 256-bit AES encrypted disk image on a mac

What is the most secured option for documents?


2392 Views   2 Replies   Latest reply: Dave Merchant, Dec 21, 2011 1:04 AM
 
Replies
  • George Johnson
    9,208 posts
    Aug 11, 2002
    Currently Being Moderated
    1. George Johnson,
    Dec 21, 2011 12:41 AM   in reply to Jdedes
    Report

    What are you trying to secure against, exactly? PDFs can be secured using different strengths (e.g., 40-bit RC4, 128-bit RC4 and AES, AES-256), so it depends on which you're using. Brute force attacks depend on the password strength and other types of attacks depend on how securely the passwords are recorded and stored. There are a number of variables to consider.

     
    |
    Mark as:
  • Dave Merchant
    Currently Being Moderated
    2. Dave Merchant,
    Dec 21, 2011 1:04 AM   in reply to Jdedes
    Report

    If the algorithm and hash length are the same, it makes no difference whether the file is encrypted "internally" or if it's placed in an encrypted disk image.

     
    |
    Mark as:
Actions

More Like This

  • Retrieving data ...

Bookmarked By (1)

Answers + Points = Status

  • 10 points awarded for Correct Answers
  • 5 points awarded for Helpful Answers
  • 10,000+ points
  • 1,001-10,000 points
  • 501-1,000 points
  • 5-500 points