How to Check if a PDF Is the Original

An “original” PDF is one that has not been changed since it was finalised. PDF Verified confirms this two ways: for a document it sealed, it compares the current file to the original SHA-256 fingerprint; for any PDF, it inspects the internal structure and revision history for signs of editing after the fact.

Verify a document free →

Step by step

  1. Open /verify and upload the PDF (or scan its QR code).
  2. The checker computes the file’s SHA-256 fingerprint and inspects its structure.
  3. It compares against the sealed original where one exists.
  4. Read the verdict: original and unaltered, or modified.

What to look for

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to check if a pdf is original?

Yes. Upload the PDF to the PDF Verified checker and get a verdict for free — no account needed. The file is analysed and not shared.

Do I need the original to compare against?

No. If the document was sealed by PDF Verified, the SHA-256 fingerprint is embedded and checked automatically. For any other PDF, the forensic checker inspects the file's own structure, metadata, and revision history.

Is my document kept private?

The file is processed only to produce the verdict and is not published or shared. Verification of a PDF Verified document can also be done with just the QR code or short code — without uploading the file at all.

How can I tell if a PDF is the original?

Upload it at /verify. If it was sealed by PDF Verified, the tool matches it against the original SHA-256 fingerprint and tells you instantly whether it is the untouched original. For any other PDF, the forensic checker flags edits, appended revisions and altered metadata.

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