Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Security, legal context, and how our free PDF redaction works.
- Does my PDF upload to your servers?
- You open and mark files in your browser. You open and mark PDFs in your browser. When you click Apply redaction, the file is sent over HTTPS to our secure redaction service, processed in memory, and returned. We do not store PDFs on disk or in a cloud inbox. Contact form messages are separate and do not include your PDF.
- What is the difference between redaction and blacking out?
- Redaction permanently removes extractable text from the PDF content stream. Black boxes in the editor are preview only; the downloaded file has blank gaps where text was deleted—not cosmetic overlays.
- Is it legal to use for court documents?
- Many courts accept properly redacted PDFs regardless of tool. Rules vary — verify with your attorney and run search/copy tests before filing.
- Is RedactPDF GDPR compliant?
- We do not store PDFs after redaction. Transient processing over HTTPS supports data minimization. You remain responsible for lawful basis, verification, and any onward transfer of the redacted file.
- Are there ads on the redaction tool?
- No. Ads appear only on blog and about pages. The /tool page is ad-free.
- What is the maximum file size?
- 100 MB to open in the editor. Large files may be slower on Apply; production hosting may limit request size (see Privacy Policy).
- How to redact a PDF online for free?
- Open RedactPDF, upload your PDF, mark sensitive areas (draw boxes, search text, or auto-detect PII), then click Apply Redactions. No account is required. Download the redacted PDF and run search/copy tests before sharing.
- How to remove text from a PDF permanently?
- Permanent removal deletes extractable text from the PDF structure — not just a black overlay. Use a redaction tool that applies true removal, then verify by searching for known strings and pasting the file into a text editor.
- Can I redact a PDF without Adobe Acrobat?
- Yes. RedactPDF is a free browser alternative focused on permanent PDF redaction. You do not need an Adobe subscription or desktop install for basic redaction workflows.
- Is it safe to redact PDFs online?
- Marking happens in your browser. On Apply, the file is sent over HTTPS for processing and returned — we do not store PDFs in a cloud inbox. For highly sensitive material, follow your organization's policy and verify the output before distribution.
- How to auto-detect emails and SSN in a PDF?
- Use the PII panel in RedactPDF to detect emails, phones, credit cards, dates, and SSN patterns. Review every match, add manual boxes for names or other data, then apply permanent redaction.
More detail in our blog guides or contact us.