How to redact a PDF

Redacting a PDF permanently removes the selected text and image content from the file, rather than drawing a shape over it. You mark what to remove, choose secure redaction, and export a rewritten PDF — entirely in your browser.

Open the PDF, then choose Redact.
Keep the strategy on Secure redaction. Whiteout only covers content and leaves it in the file.
Select the text to remove, or switch to area mode to mark a region on a scan.
Review the sanitize options for metadata, attachments, and comments.
Apply the redaction, check the verification result, then download the redacted PDF.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between secure redaction and whiteout?

Secure redaction removes the covered text and image content from the file and rewrites the document. Whiteout draws an opaque shape on top and leaves the original content underneath, where it can still be copied.

How do I know the content is actually gone?

After applying a secure redaction, a second engine re-reads the exported file and checks the redacted regions for extractable text. You are warned if anything is still detected.

Can I redact a scanned document?

Yes. Use area mode to mark the region. Be aware that scans may carry an invisible OCR text layer, which secure redaction removes and a drawn shape does not.

Does it remove the document metadata too?

Metadata, attachments, and comments are cleared by default as part of the redaction. You can review these options before applying.

Is my document uploaded?

No. The redaction runs in your browser and the file is not sent to a server, which you can confirm in your browser network inspector.