Check if a PDF is safe
Got a PDF from someone you don't know? Safety Check looks inside the file without opening it in a viewer and tells you what it contains: JavaScript, actions that run as soon as the file opens, commands that try to launch programs, embedded files, form submit actions and web links.
Use it before opening attachments from unexpected emails, files from download sites, or documents that ask you to enable content or click to view. The verdict is a quick guide; the detailed list underneath shows exactly what was found and how many times, so you can judge for yourself.
You get a clear verdict — looks clean, some active content or contains executable content — plus the details: PDF version, page count, page size, author and the software that made it. Most active content is harmless (forms use scripts for calculations), but a launch action or a hidden attachment in an unexpected invoice is a warning sign.
The check runs in your browser: the file is only read, never opened in a PDF viewer and never uploaded.
Drop a PDF here
PDF · or click to choose · you can also paste · up to 300 MB · stays on your device
Your privacy
This tool works entirely inside your browser. Your files are never uploaded to any server.
How to use Safety Check
- 1
Add the PDF
Drop the file on the page or click to choose it.
- 2
Read the report
See the verdict and every item found.
- 3
Decide
If something looks suspicious, don't open the file in a desktop viewer — or clean it with Remove Hidden Data.
Questions and answers
Is this a virus scanner?
No. It looks for PDF features that malware commonly uses. A clean result is reassuring, but not a guarantee.
Is it safe to check a suspicious file here?
Yes. The file is read as data in your browser; its scripts are never run.
Is my file uploaded?
No. The check happens on your device.
Some active content was found. Should I worry?
Not necessarily: forms often contain scripts. Be careful with launch actions, auto-run actions and attachments from senders you don't know.
How do I remove what was found?
Use Remove Hidden Data to strip scripts, auto-run actions and attachments.