Redact PDF file
Permanently remove sensitive content by covering areas with black boxes.
or drop PDF file here
Supports single PDF • 100% Local process in your device
How to Redact PDF Online
Securely remove sensitive information from your PDF documents in three simple steps.
Upload your PDF
Click the Select PDF File button or drag and drop your document into the select area. Your file will be processed and stay on your device — nothing is uploaded to any server.
Draw Redaction Boxes
Navigate through your pages and drag your mouse over any areas you want to permanently remove. Black boxes will appear to cover the selected areas.
Use the Undo, Clear Page, or Clear All buttons to adjust your selections before finalizing.
Apply & Download
Once satisfied, click Apply Redactions. Our tool will permanently burn the black boxes into the PDF, removing the underlying data. Download your secure, redacted file instantly.
All data within the areas covered by the black box is permanently removed and cannot be recovered. This ensures information security.
Why Choose CedarPDF for Redaction?
100% Private & Secure
Unlike online converters, CedarPDF processes everything locally in your browser. Your sensitive documents never leave your device, ensuring complete privacy and compliance with data protection regulations.
Permanent Data Removal
We don't just cover text; we permanently remove the underlying content. Once applied, the redacted information cannot be recovered, copied, or searched, guaranteeing true security.
Completely Free
No hidden fees, no email or registration required, and no daily limits. Redact as many PDFs as you need, regardless of file size or page count, it is truly free.
High-Quality Output
Preserve the original layout and quality of your document. Non-redacted text remains sharp, searchable, and selectable, ensuring your final PDF looks professional.
When Do You Need to Redact PDFs?
From students to professionals, CedarPDF helps people protect sensitive information effortlessly. Here are some common scenarios:
Protect Academic Privacy
- Redact personal information (name, student ID) from thesis submissions for anonymous review.
- Remove sensitive grades or personal notes from shared academic transcripts.
- Redact reviewer comments or confidential annotations before sharing research papers.
- Best of all: It's completely free for unlimited student use!
Secure Business Documents
- Redact sensitive contract terms, pricing, or financial figures before sharing with external parties.
- Remove confidential employee information, salaries, or SSNs from HR documents.
- Redact sensitive legal information, party names, or case details from court filings.
- Best of all: Your confidential documents never leave your computer.
Protect Personal Information
- Identity Protection: Redact SSN, driver's license numbers, or passport numbers from scanned documents.
- Medical Records: Redact sensitive health information before sharing medical records.
- Financial Documents: Redact account numbers, balances, or transaction details from bank statements.
- Best of all: Works perfectly on mobile phones and tablets for on-the-go tasks.