Redact a PDF so the words are really gone
Written by Autonome. Updated 5 November 2026.
Why can people still copy text I blacked out in a PDF?
Because a black box drawn over text usually just sits on top of it. The words are still in the file, so anyone can select them, copy them or find them with search. Proper redaction takes them out.
Autonome PDF's Redact turns each redacted page into an image with the boxes burned in, so the covered words aren't in the saved file at all. It also clears the other places a PDF can repeat them, like its properties, bookmarks, attachments and comments.
- The covered words are removed from the file.
- Hidden copies in properties, bookmarks and comments are cleared too.
Redact a PDF
Choose your file and Redact opens. The original never leaves your computer.
| Step | What you do | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Open the PDF | In your browser |
| 2 | Choose Redact and mark each area | Names, account numbers, addresses |
| 3 | Apply the redaction | You confirm once, with Sanitise document ticked |
| 4 | Download | Nothing leaves until the marks are applied |
Sending out reports with personal details in them?
If the same payslips, incident reports or statements get redacted before they go to a client or an auditor, PDF Studio in Autonome redacts the copy in Company Files and keeps the unredacted original beside it, for the people allowed to see it.
See sending supplier bills to Xero or MYOB, the other Gadgets, or everything PDF Studio does.
Questions
What's the difference between Redact and Cover with white?
Redact removes the words. Cover with white only hides them, and they can still be copied from underneath.
Can redacted text be recovered?
Not from the downloaded file. The redacted pages don't contain the words any more.
Are my files uploaded?
No. Redaction happens in your browser.
Try it on a week of your own admin.
14-day free trial. Your card is checked and nothing is charged for 14 days. Then A$193.50/mo ex GST for up to 50 people.
Look around first, no card