Python Requires Chilkat v11.7.0+

Extract Text from a PDF that Forbids Copying

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Demonstrates a PDF that opens without a password but whose permissions do not allow copying text. The "text", "markdown", "search" and "tables" operations fail with that reason; "assess" always works. Loading the PDF with the OwnerPassword property set grants owner rights, and extraction works. Chilkat2-Python

import sys
import chilkat2

success = False

# This example requires the Chilkat API to have been previously unlocked.
# See Global Unlock Sample for sample code.

# The PDF used in this example (owner password: owner-secret; copying not permitted) is available at no_copy_permission.pdf

pdf = chilkat2.Pdf()
json = chilkat2.JsonObject()
jsonOut = chilkat2.JsonObject()

# The PDF opens without a password.
success = pdf.LoadFile("qa_data/pdf/no_copy_permission.pdf")
if (success == False):
    print(pdf.LastErrorText)
    sys.exit()

# Extracting text is refused, because the PDF's permissions do not allow copying.
success = pdf.ExtractText("text",json,jsonOut)
if (success == False):
    print("Extraction refused: " + pdf.LastErrorText)

# "assess" reports only counts and ratings, never text, so it is always allowed.
success = pdf.ExtractText("assess",json,jsonOut)
if (success == False):
    print(pdf.LastErrorText)
    sys.exit()

print("rating: " + jsonOut.StringOf("quality.rating"))

# Load with the owner password to get owner rights, which include copying.
pdf.OwnerPassword = "owner-secret"
success = pdf.LoadFile("qa_data/pdf/no_copy_permission.pdf")
if (success == False):
    print(pdf.LastErrorText)
    sys.exit()

success = pdf.ExtractText("text",json,jsonOut)
if (success == False):
    print(pdf.LastErrorText)
    sys.exit()

print(jsonOut.StringOf("text"))

# Sample output:

# Extraction refused: ChilkatLog:
#   ExtractText:
#     ...
#       The PDF's permissions do not allow copying or extracting text (load it with the owner password to extract).
#     ...
# rating: good
# Visitor Leaflet
# 
# Welcome to the harbor lighthouse. The tower is open on weekends from July to September.
# 
# Please keep to the marked paths and do not climb on the breakwater.
# 
# The lantern room is closed in high winds.