# How to verify PDF redaction worked

> How to verify PDF redaction worked: select text, search, and re-run a privacy score — all without uploading.

Canonical: https://mypdf.space/guides/verify-pdf-redaction-worked
Last updated: 2026-10-22

## Direct answer

Open the output, try to select and search for removed words, then run the mypdf privacy checker for a score. If anything remains, redact again.

## Introduction

Redaction mistakes are expensive. Build a habit: download → select → search → score.

## Steps

1. Download the redacted PDF.
2. Try selecting text under black areas.
3. Search for sensitive strings you removed.
4. Drop the file into the privacy checker and confirm the score improves.

## What success looks like

No selectable text in redacted regions, search finds nothing sensitive, and covered-text checks are clear.

## Limits

- Checkers are best-effort.
- Visual review still matters for names in images.

## FAQ

### Can I trust Auto-redact alone?

No — always verify with select/search/checker.

### Privacy receipt?

Optional local hash record — not a legal certificate.

### Upload?

Verification tools on mypdf stay local.

## Related

- [Redact](https://mypdf.space/tools/redact)
- [Auto-redact PII](https://mypdf.space/tools/auto-redact-pii)
- [All guides](https://mypdf.space/guides)