Hot-document redaction is the removal of personal data from a key, case-relevant exhibit within the FRCP 26(b)(1) scope. anonym.plus runs locally and keeps the content that makes the item matter to the case.
When this applies
A hot document is a smoking-gun item reviewers flag as critical. It still carries third-party PII that must come out before it is used or filed.
How anonym.plus handles it
- Open the file in anonym.plus on your device.
- It flags names, contacts, and IDs around the key text.
- Mark the relevant passage to keep it intact.
- Confirm the flags away from the key content.
- Black out or mask each confirmed value.
- Save the clean document on your device.
What you need to provide
- The file (PDF, DOCX, email, or scan).
- An allow-list to keep the relevant key text.
- An operator; Redact for filed material.
PII entity types detected
| Category | anonym.plus entity type | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Names | PERSON | non-party name → [NAME] |
| Contact | PHONE_NUMBER | phone → [PHONE] |
| Identifiers | US_SSN | SSN → [SSN] |
| Account | US_BANK_NUMBER | account no. → [ACCOUNT] |
| Dates | DATE_TIME | date → [DATE] |
| Location | LOCATION | address → [ADDRESS] |
Compliance achieved
- Keeps a key exhibit within FRCP 26(b)(1) scope.
- Clears third-party PII while the relevant content stays.
- Offline work keeps the item inside your firm.
Anonymize hot documents offline — see plans & start free →
Limitations & cautions
A hot document earns close scrutiny, so cut errors are costly. Keep the relevant passage with an allow-list, and clear only PII that is not at issue. Over-clearing a key item can draw a challenge from the other side.
Frequently asked questions
What is a hot document?
It is a key exhibit reviewers flag as highly relevant or damaging — often the centerpiece of a claim or defense within the FRCP 26(b)(1) scope.
How do I keep the relevant text while clearing PII?
An allow-list keeps the passage that matters to the case, while the tool clears third-party PII around it.
Can I clear a scanned item?
Yes. Local OCR reads scans, so PII in an image file is caught.