How to Redact a PDF Permanently (Delete Text for Real)

Covering text with a white or black box does not remove it: the text can often still be copied from underneath. True redaction permanently deletes the text from the PDF. PDF EAZY TOOL performs real redaction in your browser, and your file is never uploaded.

Permanently redact a PDF in 4 steps

Open the free Redact PDF tool and upload your PDF.
Select the blackout tool and draw rectangles over the text you want to remove.
Zoom in and check every rectangle fully covers the sensitive words.
Click Redact and download the new PDF. The covered text is gone from the document.

Screenshot: permanently redacting text in a PDF

Tips

Redact names, ID numbers, and signatures everywhere they appear, including headers and footers.
Always test the downloaded file: try to select and copy the blacked-out area. Nothing should be selectable.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between redaction and covering text with a box?

A drawn box only hides text visually; the words can still be copied from the file. True redaction deletes the text from the PDF so it can never be recovered.

Can redacted text ever be recovered?

No, not from a properly redacted file. Our tool removes the text content, not just its appearance.

Is my document uploaded anywhere during redaction?

No. Redaction runs entirely in your browser. Your file never leaves your device.

Can I redact images or signatures too?

The blackout tool covers any area of the page, including images, before the page is rebuilt.

How to Redact a PDF Permanently

Permanently redact a PDF in 4 steps

Tips

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Frequently asked questions