Why a black rectangle isn't always enough
Drawing a box in a PDF editor often only covers the text: the words are still in the file and can be copied, searched or revealed by deleting the box. Courts, governments and companies have leaked secrets this way. Cropping a screenshot on some phones can also leave the original recoverable.
How this tool redacts
When you download, every page is redrawn as a fresh image with the boxes painted in. The original text layer is thrown away, so the hidden content no longer exists in the new file.
Find sensitive data automatically
For PDFs with real text, search for a name or number, or box every email, phone number or long number (IDs, accounts, cards) in one click. Always review each page: text split across lines may be missed, and scanned pages need manual boxes.
What to hide before sharing
- ID, tax and passport numbers
- Bank account, card numbers and balances
- Home address, phone and email
- Signatures, QR codes and barcodes
- Names of other people (kids, colleagues, clients)
Frequently asked questions
Can someone undo the redaction?
No. The output is rebuilt from pixels with the boxes already painted, and the original text isn't carried over.
Why is the text no longer selectable?
Because pages become images — that's what guarantees the hidden text is gone.
Is blurring as good as a black box?
No. Blurred or pixelated text can sometimes be reconstructed. Solid boxes are the safe choice.