How To Remove Metadata From PDF Files

There are four proven ways to strip metadata from your PDF files:

• Use online tools (no software needed).

• Edit document properties directly.

• Use redact or sanitize features.

• Print to a new PDF file.

Let’s walk step-by-step through each method.

Start here: Use the compressor below to upload or drag-and-drop your PDF and remove metadata during compression.

Next step: Use the Flatten PDF tool below to upload or drag-and-drop your file and download a flattened copy.

Most PDF readers let you manually remove metadata through document properties:

1. Open your PDF in your preferred editor.

2. Go to “File” “Properties” or “File” “Document Properties.”

3. Open the “Description” or “Summary” tab.

4. Clear the fields for “Title,” “Author,” “Subject,” and “Keywords.”

5. Save your PDF to apply the changes.

If you’re using Preview on macOS, go to “Tools” > “Show Inspector” and look under the first two tabs.

Professional PDF software often includes sanitize tools that remove all hidden data:

1. Open your PDF and navigate to the “Tools” menu.

2. Look for “Redact” or “Protection” options.

3. Select “Sanitize Document” or “Remove Hidden Information.”

4. Follow prompts to remove all metadata and hidden content.

5. Save the sanitized document.

The simplest method that works with any PDF viewer:

1. Open your PDF and go to “File” > “Print.”

2. Select “Save as PDF” or “Microsoft Print to PDF” from the printer menu.

3. Choose your save location and hit “Save.”

This creates a flattened copy with only visible content, effectively stripping all metadata. However, you might lose some formatting or interactive elements.

• Pros: Fast, no installs, works on any device, clears hidden data automatically.

• Cons: Requires internet connection, so large files may take longer to upload.

• Pros: Simple and free for most readers. Gives control over what to delete.

• Cons: May not remove all hidden metadata. Manual process for each file.

• Pros: Removes all embedded and hidden info. Useful for sensitive files.

• Cons: Usually only available in paid or advanced software.

• Pros: Works in almost any viewer. Creates a clean, flat copy.

• Cons: Can remove bookmarks, links, or interactive elements.

Not sure what metadata your PDF has? Most PDF readers let you take a quick peek. 

Open the file, go to “File” > “Document Properties,” and look under the “Description” and “Custom” tabs. 

If you’re using Preview on macOS, go to “Tools” > “Show Inspector” and look under the first two tabs. You’ll see details like the author, creation date, and software used.

Removing metadata is just one part of PDF security. Consider these additional protection methods:

• Password protection: Add owner or user passwords to control access and editing permissions.

• Encryption: Use 128-bit or 256-bit encryption to secure sensitive content.

• Redaction: Permanently remove visible sensitive text, unlike metadata removal which handles hidden info.

• Flattening: Convert interactive elements to static content for added security.

Creating documents with minimal metadata saves time and protects privacy. When drafting a file, avoid adding unnecessary tags or author info. Before sharing, double-check for hidden details, especially if the file contains sensitive information.

Metadata isn’t always bad—it can be handy in some cases. 

For instance, if you’re collaborating with a team, metadata can track changes and let everyone see who edited what. It’s also useful for archiving, as it keeps important details about a document’s origin. The key is knowing when the metadata adds value and when it’s better to strip it for privacy reasons.

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