Is flatten the same as encrypting the file?
No. Flatten makes content static. Use Protect PDF to add a password. Use Redact PDF to remove hidden text.
Burn fields, comments, and markups into the page so recipients see a fixed document.
No. Flatten makes content static. Use Protect PDF to add a password. Use Redact PDF to remove hidden text.
Yes. Export a flattened copy for sending and keep the original fillable file locally.