PDF Redactor
Black out sensitive information in PDF documents
The PDF Redactor permanently removes selected text from a PDF so it can't be recovered by copying or searching. It's for scrubbing personal and confidential content before disclosure. Redaction is performed locally in your browser.
Content reviewed: August 2, 2026
Encrypted with HTTPSProcessed in your browser
All processing runs locally in your browser. Your files and text are not sent to Tool-web's server.
Actions:
How to Use
- Upload your PDF file
- Select the text or areas to redact
- Choose the redaction style (black box, white box)
- Download the redacted PDF
Features
- Text search and area redaction
- Black or white box styles
- Preview redactions before applying
- Runs entirely in your browser
Tips for getting PDF Redactor right
- A black box alone isn't redaction — verify the text is truly unselectable
- Check comments, layers, and metadata for leftover content
- Keep an encrypted copy of the original for authorized use
- Confirm your disclosure obligations before sharing the redacted file
Real-World Use Cases
- Removing personal information before disclosure
- Redacting financial figures and confidential clauses
- Preparing case files for privacy-compliant sharing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the redaction permanent?
No. The tool covers content with a black or white box as a visual overlay. The underlying content is not removed from the file.
Can I redact images?
Yes. You can draw redaction boxes over any area of the PDF including images and graphics.
Can I preview before applying?
Yes. You can review all redaction areas before finalizing. Once applied, redactions cannot be undone.
How do I verify the redaction?
After downloading, note that the boxes are visual overlays. The covered text can still be selected, copied, or searched, so do not rely on this tool to permanently remove sensitive content.
Can redacted content be recovered?
Yes, potentially. Because the tool applies a visual overlay, the underlying content remains in the file. For true redaction, use dedicated software that removes content from the document.
Privacy & Security
Redaction is performed in the browser. Verify the resulting file before sharing because the tool cannot determine your legal disclosure obligations.
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