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PDF ToolBuilt into the unified PDF editor

Redact a PDF

Permanently remove sensitive areas from a PDF: text and images located under the area are irreversibly destroyed. Directly in DocuNest's unified PDF editor (Edit menu).

Redact a PDF in DocuNest: 100% local processing on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Automatable via the docunest CLI.

Redact a PDF
Preview of Redact a PDF in DocuNest, offline PDF app

Built into the unified PDF editor. This tool is used directly within the DocuNest editor: open your PDF, apply the action, undo with Ctrl+Z if needed, then move on to any other tool — without ever reloading your file.

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Features

Permanent and irreversible removal of sensitive areas
Text and images beneath the area: nothing can be recovered
Precise definition of the area directly on the page
Redaction from the editor (Edit menu), without leaving your document
Undoable before saving (Ctrl+Z), permanent once exported

Use cases

1

Protect personal data

Remove names, addresses, or social security numbers before distribution.

2

Respond to an access request

Redact third-party information in a document before disclosure.

3

Legal compliance

Permanently eliminate confidential clauses from a shared contract.

Command line

Same result as the interface, in one command. Nothing leaves your machine.

docunest — zsh

local
# Redact an area
❯ docunest pdf redact -i document.pdf --page 1 --rect "100,700,200,30" -o result.pdf
✓ Done — file written locally, no network upload

Complete CLI documentation →

Frequently asked questions

Is the text under the redaction deleted?
Yes. The text and images located under the redacted area are permanently deleted from the file.
Can I redact multiple areas?
Yes. Apply multiple rectangles on the same page or on different pages.
Is redaction reversible?
No. Once the file is exported, the deletion is permanent. Keep a copy of the original if necessary.

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Linux

Install a system package, or use the AppImage if you prefer a portable version.

Windows 10+, macOS 12+ (Apple Silicon), Linux (deb / rpm / AppImage)