What are the advantages and disadvantages of using hidden form fields in PHP for form processing?

When processing forms in PHP, using hidden form fields can be a useful way to pass data between pages without displaying it to the user. However, hidden form fields can also be manipulated by users, leading to potential security vulnerabilities. It is important to validate and sanitize the data received from hidden form fields to prevent any malicious activities.

<form action="process.php" method="post">
    <input type="hidden" name="user_id" value="<?php echo $user_id; ?>">
    <!-- Other form fields -->
    <button type="submit">Submit</button>
</form>