Redact a PDF permanently
Permanently black out names, numbers and anything private. The text is truly removed.
Processed on your device. This page has no server that could receive your files.
How to redact a PDF permanently
Black out sensitive information so it is gone for good, not just hidden under a box. FreePDF removes the text underneath, cleans bookmarks, attachments and metadata, and then checks the result.
- 1Choose the PDF to redact.
- 2Search for text (names, emails, phone numbers) or draw boxes by hand.
- 3Press Permanently redact, read the check report, then download.
Frequently asked questions
Is the text really removed?
Yes. Redacted pages are rebuilt as pictures with the boxes burned in, and the original page data is removed from the file. The tool then confirms no readable text is left on those pages.
What does redaction change?
Pages with redactions become flat images, so their text can no longer be selected. Pages without redactions are untouched.
Why not just draw a black rectangle?
A rectangle only covers the text. Anyone can select or extract what is underneath. Real redaction deletes it.
Is it safe? Are my files uploaded?
Your files are never uploaded. Everything runs inside your own browser, so there is no server that could receive, store or leak your documents. You can even switch off your internet connection after the page has loaded and it keeps working.