Tech Explained Series

The Invisible DataBehind Photos

You think you just shared a landscape photo, but you might have leaked the timestamp, camera model, and even precise GPS coordinates. This is called EXIF Data.

Start Interactive Demo Understand Principles

EXIF Analyzer

Simulating the process of reading photo metadata.

IMG_2025.JPG
Location Exposed: 39.9042° N
METADATA_VIEWER
Make: Sony
Model: Alpha a7 IV
Date: 2024:12:25 14:30:05
Exposure: 1/4000 sec
Aperture: f/2.8
ISO: 100
GPS Lat: 39 deg 54' 15.12" N
GPS Long: 116 deg 24' 26.64" E
Altitude: 54 m

Waiting for Input...

Core Concepts

Exchangeable Image File Format

Shooting Parameters

Records the physical state when the photo was taken.

  • Camera Make & Model
  • Aperture (F-stop) / Shutter Speed
  • ISO / Flash State

Location & Time

Records "Spacetime Coordinates", the biggest privacy risk.

  • Precise GPS Coordinates
  • Altitude / Compass Direction
  • Second-precise Timestamp

Privacy Risk Warning

Case: Home Address Leak. You send a raw cat photo taken at home to a stranger. They can get precise coordinates from properties and locate your building on a map.

Business & Legal Risks

Exposing business negotiation locations, document timelines, breaking NDAs.

Social Platform Mechanism

Instagram/Twitter compress & strip data; but Raw files, Email, Cloud Drives usually keep it.

Tech Ops: How to Remove?

Using System Properties

  1. Right-click image, select "Properties".
  2. Switch to "Details" tab.
  3. Click blue link at bottom: "Remove Properties and Personal Information".
  4. Select "Create a copy with all possible properties removed".