Redact PDF
Really removes the words: every page is rebuilt as an image and the finished file is checked to confirm no text can be extracted. The trade-off is that no text in the result can be selected or searched any more.
About Redact PDF
Redact PDF permanently removes sensitive words. Draw areas over the page or search for words to find and remove, and the file is rebuilt so the removed text cannot be recovered.
The finished file is checked to confirm the redacted text can no longer be extracted. The trade-off is that the result is made of images, so none of its text can be selected or searched.
When to use Redact PDF
- Remove names, ID numbers or addresses before sharing a document.
- Hide financial details from a report you send to others.
- Prepare a document for public release.
Tips for the best result
- Use the search option to find every occurrence of a word at once.
- Review each page of the result before you share it.
- Run OCR PDF on the result if you need the remaining text to be searchable again.
How to use Redact PDF online
- 1
Upload your file
Choose a PDF file or drag and drop it onto the page.
- 2
Choose your options
Use the visual editor to make your changes directly on the page.
- 3
Run Redact PDF
Click the button and the file is processed on our secure server in seconds.
- 4
Download the result
Download your new file. Your upload and the result are deleted automatically afterwards.
Read the full guide: How to Redact a PDF Permanently (Remove Sensitive Text for Good) →
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between redacting and covering text?
A black box or white-out only hides words visually, and the text can still be copied. Redaction removes the words from the file entirely.
Why can I not select text in the redacted file?
To remove the words for real, every page is rebuilt as an image. This is what makes the redaction permanent, and it means the remaining text is not selectable.
Is Redact PDF free?
Yes. You can use Redact PDF on SnapPDF for free, without creating an account. Paid plans only raise the limits for heavy use.
How do I use Redact PDF?
1. Upload your file. 2. Choose your options. 3. Run Redact PDF. 4. Download the result.
Are my files safe?
Yes. Files are sent over HTTPS, stored encrypted, visible only to you, and deleted automatically after processing. We never sell your files or use them to train AI.
Do I need to install any software?
No. Redact PDF works in any modern browser on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iPhone.
Which file types are supported?
Redact PDF accepts PDF files.
What else can I do with SnapPDF?
SnapPDF has more pdf security tools and many others to merge, split, compress, convert, edit and secure PDFs.