How to Remove All Personal Information from Files and Pictures?
Nowadays, we share files and photos almost every day via email, cloud storage, social media, and more. But most people don’t know that these files contain hidden personal information.
This blog is written to help users understand:
- What personal information is hidden in files?
- Why it is risky to share files without cleaning them?
- How to remove the information quickly and safely?
This topic is all about privacy and safe sharing. So, keep reading.
What is the Personal Hidden Data in Files?
Personal data is not always visible. Most files store information in the background like:
- Name or username
- Your Phone number
- Location
- Email address
- Device details
- Software used by you
And more…
Even if your file looks normal, this hidden information can still be there.
Why Remove All Personal Information from Files and Pictures Before Sharing?
- Helps to protect the privacy: Hidden information can show who you are, where you live and more.
- Avoid data leaks: When files and pictures are shared outside the organization, sensitive personal information can be exposed by mistake.
- Follow data protection rules: Most organizations follow the privacy laws and rules. Removing all the personal hidden information from files and images helps you stay safe and compliant.
- Share files safely: Cleaner files are always safe to send to clients, colleagues, and the public.
What All Files Can Contain Hidden Information?
Personal information can be found in several file types like:
- Image Files (PNG, JPG, JPEG, and more)
- Document Files (DOC, PDF, RTF, and more)
- Email Files and Attachments
- Scanned Files
How to Strip Personal Information from Files and Pictures?
The easiest and safest way to strip personal hidden information from pictures and files is the 4n6 MetaRaser.
It is a one-stop solution designed to strip personal information from all type of document files, image files, Excel files, and more.
Steps to Clean Personal Information using 4n6 Software
- Firstly, download and install the software on your Windows computer
- Run the software and click the Open button
- A list will appear, please choose Document Files, Excel Files, Image Files, etc. option.
- The software provides you with two ways to browse and load your files into the software panel. Please select the Choose Files or Folders option.
- The software will quickly load your selected files into the left panel. Click the loaded files and preview before removing personal information.
- Now, click the Actions button and choose the Clear Metadata option.
- Check the files loaded on the left panel and the location where you need to get the cleaned files.
- Check the required filters and click the Save button to begin the personal information cleaning process.
What 4n6 Software Removes?
It easily removes author and owner details
- Location and GPS data
- Complete device and software information
- File creation and modification history
- All other hidden metadata
The file content remains the same. Only the personal information is removed.
Benefits of Using 4n6 Software
- Easy to use even for non-technical users
- Supports all types of document files
- Strip personal information from files and pictures in bulk
- Supports all type of Excel files
- Supports cleaning hidden personal information from all type of PowerPoint files
- Cleans personal information from media files
- You can selectively strip personal information from files before sharing
- Your original content remains intact during the cleaning process
- Supports all versions of Windows OS
- Preview your files before cleaning them
Here Are the Best Tips for Safe File Sharing
- Always clean your files before sharing them
- Avoid sharing your original files if possible
- Always use trusted software to remove personal information
- Make removing all personal information from files and pictures a regular habit.
Who Should Strip All Personal Information from Files?
It is very important for:
- Businesses and organizations (large and small)
- Journalists and researchers
- HR and compliance teams
- Legal and forensic professionals
Anyone who shares files online.
Final Words
Your files contain hidden personal data. It is very important to remove this information before sharing files with someone.
Using software like our 4n6 Personal Information Remover makes it easy to clean all types of files and protect privacy. Clean files help you share the information confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone misuse hidden personal information found inside the files?
Yes, hidden personal data can be use to easily identify the owner, track the file origin and gather system details, etc. which can lead to privacy and security issues if it reaches to the wrong person.
Do cloud storage platforms remove hidden personal data automatically?
No, most cloud platforms only store and sync your files. Cloud platforms does not remove the hidden information before sharing or downloading.
Is hidden personal information still present if I convert file to another format?
In most cases, yes. File conversion does not remove embedded personal information.
Are screenshots safer than the original picture?
It will reduce some hidden personal data, but this is not a professional solution.
Is hidden personal information cleaning is important for internal company sharing?
Yes. Even internal file sharing can create risks if files are forwarded outside the organization and accessed by unauthorized user later.
Does removing all personal information from files and pictures change the legal value of a file?
No, removing personal information (metadata) does not change the legal value of your file or image. It only removes the hidden background information.
Is removing all personal information from files and pictures a technical task?
No, with the right software like 4n6, removing personal information is a simple task and it does not require technical knowledge.
