PDF documents hold more information than just the visible text and images on their pages. Inside every PDF file is a hidden dictionary of metadata-or document properties-that contains data about the file's origin. Sometimes this information is useful for organizing a digital library. Other times, it is a massive privacy risk if you are sending an anonymous resume or a confidential whistleblowing document.
What is Hidden in PDF Properties?
- Creator & Producer – Exposes exactly what software was used to generate or edit the PDF (e.g., Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, Canva).
- Author Name – Often automatically pulled from the login name of the computer that exported the file.
- Creation & Modify Dates – The exact second the document was created, and the exact second it was last modified.
- Subject & Keywords – Internal search tags applied by the creator.
How to Read PDF Metadata with EveryTool
To peek behind the curtain of a PDF file without buying expensive desktop reading software, you can use EveryTool's free online document property reader.
- Open the PDF Metadata Viewer on EveryTool.
- Upload any PDF document.
- The tool instantly reads the internal metadata dictionary and extracts all available fields into a clean table.
- Review the 'Author', 'Creator', and 'Producer' fields.
How and Why to Scrub Metadata
If you are sending a ghostwritten article to a client, you might want to remove your personal computer's user name from the Author field. Or, if you are a lawyer submitting a final draft, you don't want the opposing counsel to see how recently the document was modified. EveryTool includes a one-click 'Strip Metadata' button that safely rewrites the PDF without these hidden properties, protecting your identity.