How to View and Remove Metadata from a PDF
Updated
Quick answer
PDFs typically embed metadata such as the author’s name, the software that created the file, and creation and modification timestamps. In PDF Slayer, open the file, choose Strip Metadata to view every field, erase them, and save a clean copy — entirely on your iPhone.
Every PDF you share may say more than what is printed on its pages. Typical embedded metadata includes the document author (often a real name or company username), the software and version that created it, and exact creation and modification timestamps.
Usually harmless — until it isn’t. A "fresh" document whose metadata shows it was written two years ago, an anonymous submission carrying its author’s name, a company template revealing internal tooling. Checking metadata before sharing takes seconds.
Strip metadata with PDF Slayer
Open the PDF
Launch PDF Slayer and open the file you are about to share.
Choose Strip Metadata
The tool shows every metadata field embedded in the document — author, creator software, dates, and more.
Review what’s there
Sometimes just seeing the fields is the eye-opener. Decide what should not travel with the file.
Erase and save
Strip the metadata and save a clean copy. The visible content is untouched; the hidden data is gone.
Free on the App Store. Works 100% offline — your documents never leave your iPhone.
Get PDF Slayer FreeWhat metadata removal does and doesn’t do
Stripping metadata removes the hidden descriptive fields attached to the file. It does not change anything visible on the pages — no content, watermarks, or signatures are affected.
A metadata tool that uploads your file to inspect it would defeat its own purpose. PDF Slayer reads and erases metadata entirely on your device, which is the only arrangement that makes sense for a privacy tool.
Frequently asked questions
What metadata do PDFs contain?
Commonly: author name, title, subject, the application and version that created the file, and creation/modification timestamps.
Does removing metadata change the visible document?
No. Pages, text, images, and signatures are untouched — only the hidden fields are erased.
Can people really see my name in a PDF I made?
Often yes — many tools write the account or device owner’s name into the author field automatically. Viewing the metadata shows you exactly what is there.
Does this remove watermarks?
No. Watermarks are visible page content, not metadata.