Redact PDF
Permanently black out sensitive information in your PDF documents. Choose a redaction color, draw rectangles over the content to hide, and download your redacted PDF. All processing happens in your browser - your files never leave your device.
Upload PDF
Drag files here or Tap to browse
Files are processed locally and never uploaded
How to Redact a PDF
Upload your PDF
Click or drag your PDF file into the upload area above.
Choose redaction color
Select black, white, gray, red, blue, or a custom color.
Draw redaction areas
Click and drag to draw rectangles over sensitive content.
Apply and download
Click Apply Redactions to permanently redact your PDF.
Quick Answer
PDF redaction permanently removes sensitive information from documents. Unlike highlighting or covering text, true redaction removes the underlying data completely. To redact a PDF, select areas containing sensitive info (SSN, addresses, names), apply redaction, and save. The redacted content cannot be recovered.
Key Facts
- Redaction permanently removes text and images - data cannot be recovered
- Different from highlighting or black boxes which can be removed to reveal text
- Used for removing PII (Social Security numbers, addresses, financial data)
- Legal documents often require redaction before public release
- FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests use redaction extensively
- Always verify redaction removed underlying data, not just visual appearance
- Browser-based redaction tools process files locally for security
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PDF redaction?
PDF redaction permanently removes sensitive information from documents. Unlike simply covering text with black boxes (which can be removed), true redaction deletes the underlying data completely and irreversibly.
Is redacted information truly gone?
Yes, when using proper redaction tools like ours, the underlying text data is completely removed from the PDF. It cannot be recovered or revealed by any means.
Is my document secure during redaction?
Absolutely. All processing happens locally in your browser. Your PDF is never uploaded to any server, ensuring complete security for sensitive documents.
Can I redact multiple items at once?
Yes, you can select multiple areas for redaction before applying, and you can search for specific text patterns to redact all instances across the document.
What types of information should I redact?
Common items to redact include: Social Security numbers, addresses, phone numbers, financial account numbers, medical information, signatures, and any other personally identifiable information (PII).