JPEG files can store GPS and personal data — here's how to inspect and remove it

JPEG images often embed hidden metadata beyond visible pixels, including GPS coordinates, camera model, capture time, and author details, which can unintentionally expose private information when files are shared publicly. Social media platforms may strip some metadata on upload, but this cannot be relied upon for sensitive images. Tools like ExifTool allow users to inspect and remove metadata locally via command line, offering full control and auditable results. For those who prefer a browser-based option without uploading files to a server, tools like Refentra process and clean JPEG metadata entirely on the user's device. Experts recommend deciding which metadata fields are necessary before sharing any image, particularly for anonymous reports or photos taken at private locations.