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by eat_veggies 2064 days ago
can pdf?
1 comments
easton 2064 days ago
Given that PDFs can embed JavaScript, they can embed ad tracking software, yes. And Linux VMs. And a port of WinAmp.
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sjy 2064 days ago
I don’t think any of that is possible with the JavaScript APIs exposed (if any) by common PDF readers. I’ve tried to do useful things with JavaScript in a PDF and failed utterly. https://stackoverflow.com/questions/32597283/can-javascript-...
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SSLy 2063 days ago
Paizo uses JS to trigger map layers (for RPG products)
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jcynix 2064 days ago
Tracking is one possible problem. The other is, that JavaScript can modify the document itself, so a part of a contract for example might print out differently depending on conditions.

That's why PDF/A for archiving was created which disallows various components, cf. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PDF%2FA

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randomdude402 2064 days ago
I didn't know they could embed javascript. That's horrifying.
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mpweiher 2064 days ago
Fortunately many PDF viewers don't run them.
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