Blog | G5 Cyber Security

Restrict Image Reuse After Distribution

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

You want to give partners access to images but stop them sharing those *exact* copies elsewhere. This guide shows how using watermarks, unique identifiers, and monitoring can achieve this without full DRM complexity.

Solution Guide: Controlling Image Distribution

  1. Watermarking
    • Add a visible watermark to each image. Include your logo and/or partner ID. This discourages casual reuse.
    • Consider *invisible* watermarks (steganography) embedded in the image data. These are harder to remove but require specialist tools for detection. Tools like Steghide can help, but be aware of their limitations.
  2. Unique Partner Identifiers
    • Generate a unique ID for each partner.
    • Embed this ID into the image filename or metadata (EXIF data). For example: image_partner123.jpg or add it to the EXIF ‘Comment’ field. Use ExifTool for metadata manipulation: 
      exiftool -Comment="Partner ID: partner123" image.jpg
  3. Distribution Method
    • Don’t just email images! Use a controlled platform with access logs.
    • A dedicated web portal or cloud storage folder (with restricted permissions) is best.
    • Record which partner received which image(s).
  4. Monitoring for Reuse
    • Use reverse image search engines (Google Images, TinEye) to check if your images are appearing on websites you haven’t authorized.
    • Set up Google Alerts using keywords related to your images and partner IDs.
    • Consider automated tools for image monitoring – many commercial options exist.
  5. Terms & Conditions
    • Have a clear agreement with partners outlining permitted usage of the images.
    • Specifically prohibit redistribution or reuse outside agreed-upon channels.
    • Include consequences for breach of contract.
  6. Metadata Analysis (Post-Distribution)
    • If you suspect misuse, download the image from where it’s been shared and examine its metadata using ExifTool: 
      exiftool image.jpg
    • Check for the presence of your unique partner ID. Absence suggests unauthorized sharing or modification.
  7. Consider File Format
    • Using a less common file format (e.g., WebP instead of JPG) can slightly deter casual reuse, as it requires conversion.
      However, this is not strong protection.

Important Note: This approach isn’t foolproof. Determined users *can* remove watermarks and metadata. It’s about making unauthorized use more difficult and detectable, and having a legal basis to address breaches.

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