Redacted Text Generator
The redacted text generator replaces letters with black bars, ███, like a declassified document, in 6 styles from full blackout to partial censoring.
Declassified Document Maker
Write a short message and turn it into a declassified file with a classification stamp. Names and numbers are blacked out automatically; click any word to hide or reveal it, or use a rule such as "Random 30%". The footer counts how many words were redacted.
6 Redaction Styles
From full blackout to a teasing hint. Compare them with your own text.
How Redacted Text Replaces Letters
The tool does not cover your letters; it replaces them. That is why the copied text never contains the hidden words.
Redacted Text Is Not Encryption
Black bars here are a visual joke or a censor effect. For real secrets, use proper tools: a black box drawn over a PDF can leave the words underneath selectable.
Redacted Meme Ideas
Redaction makes ordinary sentences suspicious. Tap an idea to copy it.
Where Redacted Text Works
The █ block has been in Unicode since 1991, so redacted text renders on every device.
Redacted Text FAQs
Can someone recover the redacted words?
No, the copied text contains only █ characters, not the hidden letters. Keep your original text if you need it later.
How is this different from strikethrough?
Strikethrough keeps words readable with a line through them, while redaction hides them. See the [strikethrough text generator](/strikethrough-text/).
What character is used for redacted text?
The full block █ (U+2588) from the Block Elements block. Shaded styles use ▓ (U+2593) and ■ (U+25A0).
How do I make a fake declassified document?
Use the document maker above: type your text, black out words and pick a stamp such as TOP SECRET.
Can I redact only some words?
Yes, click words in the document maker to black out just those, or use the Declassified style for every other word.
Is it safe to redact a PDF with black boxes?
Not always: a drawn box can leave the text underneath selectable. Use a PDF tool with a real redaction feature for documents.
Related tools
Browse every tool in Text Effects or go back to the Fancy Text Generator.