Security Overview
At pdftheory, we believe that the best way to protect your data is to never have access to it in the first place. That's why we've built our entire platform around client-side processing technology.
Unlike traditional PDF tools that upload your files to remote servers, pdftheory processes everything directly in your web browser using advanced JavaScript and WebAssembly technology. This means your sensitive documents – whether they contain financial records, legal contracts, medical information, or personal data – never leave your device.
Local Processing Technology
Every PDF operation on pdftheory is performed using cutting-edge browser technologies:
WebAssembly (WASM)
High-performance binary format that runs PDF processing at near-native speed directly in your browser.
JavaScript PDF Libraries
Open-source libraries like PDF-lib and pdf.js power our tools, running entirely in your browser environment.
Browser Sandbox
All processing occurs within your browser's secure sandbox, isolated from other applications and the internet.
No Server Uploads
Zero File Uploads Guarantee
Your PDF files are never uploaded to our servers or any third-party servers. When you select a file, it's read directly by your browser and processed locally. The processed result is then available for download – all without any data ever leaving your device.
What this means for you:
- Complete Privacy: We cannot see your documents because they never reach us.
- No Data Breaches: Since we don't store files, there's nothing to breach.
- No Third-Party Access: Your files aren't shared with any external services.
- Works Offline: Once loaded, many tools work without an internet connection.
Data Encryption
While your files stay local, all communication with our website is secured:
- TLS 1.3 Encryption: All connections use the latest TLS encryption protocols.
- HTTPS Everywhere: Our entire site is served over HTTPS with HSTS enabled.
- Secure Headers: We implement security headers including CSP, X-Frame-Options, and XSS protection.
- No Mixed Content: All resources are loaded securely to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.
Data Handling & Retention
| Data Type | Storage Location | Retention |
|---|---|---|
| Your PDF Files | Your device only (browser memory) | Deleted immediately when you close the tab |
| Processing Data | Browser memory | Cleared after each operation |
| Account Information | Secure servers (if you create an account) | Until you delete your account |
| Analytics (anonymous) | Google Analytics | Up to 24 months |
Infrastructure Security
Our website infrastructure follows industry best practices:
- CDN Protection: Global content delivery with DDoS protection.
- Regular Updates: All dependencies and frameworks are kept up-to-date.
- Security Audits: Regular code reviews and security assessments.
- Minimal Data Collection: We only collect what's absolutely necessary.
- Open Source: Core components are open source and can be independently audited.
Compliance & Standards
pdftheory is designed to help you maintain compliance with data protection regulations:
GDPR Compliant
Meets European Union data protection requirements
CCPA Compliant
Meets California Consumer Privacy Act requirements
HIPAA Friendly
Suitable for processing healthcare documents (files never leave your device)
SOX Friendly
Suitable for financial document processing
Security Reporting
We take security seriously and welcome responsible disclosure of any vulnerabilities.
Report a Security Issue
If you discover a security vulnerability, please report it to us responsibly:
Security Email
security@pdftheory.comGeneral Contact
privacy@pdftheory.comPlease include a detailed description of the vulnerability and steps to reproduce it. We aim to respond within 48 hours.