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ExifX Privacy Guide

EXIF vs IPTC vs XMP: Understanding Different Types of Metadata

2025-11-01 ExifX Guides Metadata & Privacy

Overview of File Metadata Types

Metadata isn't one-size-fits-all. EXIF focuses on camera tech, IPTC on editorial info, and XMP on extensible data. Knowing them helps you protect files comprehensively—ExifX handles all three effortlessly.

What is EXIF Metadata?

EXIF is for images: aperture, ISO, GPS, timestamps. Great for pros, risky for privacy.

What is IPTC Metadata?

IPTC adds captions, keywords, copyrights—useful for journalists but can leak personal notes.

What is XMP Metadata?

XMP is Adobe's flexible standard: editing history, rights, across file types like PDFs.

Why Remove All Metadata Types?

  • Comprehensive privacy: One type left can still expose you.
  • Compliance: Meets GDPR and data protection laws.
  • Future-proof: New formats emerge, ExifX adapts.

Stripping All with ExifX

ExifX detects and removes EXIF, IPTC, XMP in one go:

  1. Upload file.
  2. Select full scrub.
  3. Get clean download.

Dive deeper in Why Metadata Matters.

FAQ

Which is most common in photos?

EXIF—always check and remove with ExifX.

Can XMP be in non-Adobe files?

Yes, it's widely used; ExifX covers it universally.

Does removing affect SEO or copyrights?

No, add visible watermarks post-removal for protection.