Tools / Unredact PDF

Unredact PDF

Check if a PDF was improperly redacted. Recovers text hidden behind black rectangles when the original text layer is still present. Read-only inspection, 100% in your browser.

Private Runs 100% in your browser — your PDF never leaves your device
Important — read before using this tool

This tool can only reveal text that is hidden behind black rectangles but still present in the PDF. It cannot recover truly redacted content where the original text has been permanently deleted. Use it to check if your own PDFs have been improperly redacted.

Your PDF 0 files
Drop PDF files here or click to browse
Up to 5 files · 50 MB each
How It Works
Load a PDF that may be redacted
Tool extracts every text layer
Detects text hidden under drawn rectangles
Shows what was underneath (if anything)
Visible page content and formatting are never changed — this is a read-only inspection.
Upload a PDF to begin.
Hidden Text Found
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What is the Unredact PDF?

Check if a PDF was improperly redacted. Recovers text hidden behind black rectangles when the original text layer is still present. Read-only inspection, 100% in your browser.

It runs 100% in your browser — your files never leave your device, no signup is required, and there are no usage limits or watermarks.

How to Use the Unredact PDF

  1. Paste, drop, or type your input into the tool above.
  2. Adjust the options to match what you need.
  3. Preview the result before copying or downloading.
  4. Everything is generated on your device — nothing is uploaded.

Why Use Our Unredact PDF?

  • 100% private — files never leave your device.
  • No signup, no email, no limits — completely free.
  • Works on any device — desktop, tablet, mobile.
  • No watermarks, no hidden fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Unredact PDF free?

Yes — completely free with no signup, no email, and no usage limits.

Are my files uploaded to a server?

No. Everything runs in your browser using JavaScript. Your files never leave your device.

Do I need to install anything?

No — just open this page in any modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge).

Does the Unredact PDF work on mobile?

Yes, on iOS and Android browsers. Very large files are best handled on desktop.

Is there a file size limit?

No hard limits. Files under 100 MB work well on most devices.