The images contain a wealth of hidden, useful data, including the date and time the image was captured, time zone, type of smartphone used, and geographic location, including longitude and latitude.
There are many reasons for recovering image data, such as the need to collect evidence for an upcoming trial, to help prevent loss of data, to modify its information, and to know the copyright holder of the image.
To uncover the hidden data of any photo, forensic tools can be used. Forensic tools can detect simple metadata or perform more advanced tasks, such as determining whether a photograph was altered.
One of the ways to retrieve hidden image data is by looking at its EXIF file.
What exactly is an EXIF file?
EXIF, short for Interchangeable Image File Format, is a code snippet that contains the identifying information of your image saved to your device.
Depending on where the image is uploaded, EXIF file data may be automatically retained or deleted. Forensic tools can quickly analyze the original image file.
A lot of image data can be manipulated, such as description, author, and “date modified” information.
Many photographers may do this for the webmaster to preserve the originality of their work or to reduce site load, as EXIF file information can take up considerable storage space.
Which forensic tools are reliable to use?
There are many reputable image forensics tools that will help with compatibility, from basic to advanced, depending on the operating system used, camera manufacturer, image file type, and more.
1. AnalogXif
AnalogExif is a metadata editor available for both Apple and Windows, allowing users to modify EXIF data for JPEG and TIFF image files.
Other features include the ability to auto-fill exposure numbers and copy metadata from another file, an excellent feature for batch jobs where lots of images are involved.
2. JPEG and PNG Stripper
JPEG & PNG Stripper is a tool to isolate, edit and remove junk metadata for JPEG and PNG files. Simply launch the program, drag your photos onto its window and it will do the rest. This editor also allows modifying the ‘taken date’ data with a few exceptions if you wish.
Overall, JPEG & PNG Stripper is a simple and quick program to use for keeping your photo metadata in order. Note: This software is limited to photos containing data only under “Microsoft Windows Properties”. It is not suitable for photos taken from iPhone or Android.
3. ExifTool
ExifTool is one of the more well rounded command line EXIF editors, ExifTool allows users to read, write and edit meta information, supporting over 10 different file formats from 15+ digital camera manufacturers does. It is compatible with Windows, Mac OSX and Linux.
Have a question about photos, image metadata and digital forensics? Kim has your answer! Click here to send Kim a question she can use and answer it on her radio show. The Kim Komando Show is broadcast on over 450 stations. Click here to know show times in your area.
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