When it comes to sharing data online, it’s crucial to prioritize privacy to avoid potential issues. One common practice is blurring personal information when sharing photos on social media platforms. We often witness this when people blur out their bank card details after making a purchase, or when concealing personal information on concert tickets or plane tickets. But is this truly a foolproof solution? In this article, we will explain what you should be cautious about to prevent problems and how to securely upload this type of content.
Blurring image data may seem like a viable option, but it’s not always foolproof. You may have encountered situations on social media where someone attempts to conceal something that they don’t want to be clearly visible. This could include a document containing a visible ID number, address, or any other sensitive data. Unfortunately, this approach can still pose privacy risks.
Do not upload photos with blurred data
The problem with relying solely on blurring or deleting data in photos is that it is no longer a reliable solution in today’s advanced technological landscape. With the development of machine learning tools, it has become relatively easy to decipher obscured or pixelated information in images. These tools utilize algorithms that can identify faces that have been intentionally blurred, achieving a probability of 71% and even reaching 83% accuracy after multiple attempts, as demonstrated by security researchers from renowned universities.
Moreover, this technology is not limited to facial identification alone. It can also be employed to uncover obscured card numbers or similar information. Therefore, blurring techniques alone may not effectively prevent access to confidential information such as documents, figures, or sensitive data.
It’s important to note that even slightly blurred images can still reveal identifiable information, making it easier for malicious actors to exploit the exposed data and potentially create problems for individuals. Thus, relying solely on blurring techniques without additional security measures can pose risks to one’s privacy.
How to upload content safely
To upload this type of content safely and avoid potential problems, it is recommended to take the following steps:
1. Completely cover the sensitive information: Instead of simply blurring the data, it is best to completely cover it. Use a photo editing application to paste a square or rectangle over the information you want to prevent from leaking. This ensures that the content is fully concealed and cannot be deciphered by machine learning tools or other software.
2. Save the edited image: Once you have covered or cut off the desired information, save the image. By doing so, you eliminate the risk of the concealed content being deciphered. Unlike blurring, which can still be deciphered through software, complete coverage reduces the likelihood of exposure.
In summary, it is crucial to upload thoroughly protected content on the internet. Avoid relying on methods like blurring, as they may still allow the content to be deciphered. Opt for complete coverage to minimize the risk and prevent potential problems. Just as there is a risk of social media accounts being hijacked, the content you upload can also be at risk. Taking proactive steps to protect sensitive information is key.