Privacy
Your files carry more than pixels.
Photos and videos often embed metadata: device model, timestamps, software — and sometimes GPS location. It travels with the file unless removed.
What metadata can reveal
- GPS coordinates — exactly where a photo was taken.
- Device and camera model — which can be cross-referenced with your other posts.
- Timestamps — when content was made.
- Editing software — version and toolchain details.
What to do
- Review before upload. Check what metadata a file carries using your OS's file inspector or a metadata viewer.
- Remove what you don't need. Strip location data before uploading. Many phone settings can disable geotagging for the camera entirely.
- Understand platform behavior. Some platforms strip metadata on upload (often imperfectly); others keep it. Assume it may be retained and act accordingly.
- Re-check after exporting. Video exports and edits can add fresh metadata.
Quick reference
| File type | Common metadata to check |
|---|---|
| Photos (JPEG/HEIC) | GPS, camera model, timestamp, software |
| Videos (MP4/MOV) | Location, device, creation time, encoder |
| Screenshots | Device resolution, timestamp |
| Documents/contracts | Author name, company, editing history |