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Understanding AI-Generated Images vs Real Photos with Detectors
1. The Influx of Synthetic Media and Verification Needs
Generative AI can create hyper-realistic imagery, making it difficult to distinguish between real camera captures and synthetic models. Verifying photo authenticity is increasingly important to counter misinformation and fake profiles.
2. Binary File Scanning and Metadata Integrity
An AI detector inspects metadata headers. Camera captures include EXIF records (exposure, camera manufacturer like Apple/Samsung), while AI engines write specific signatures like C2PA or content credentials. Scanning files binary-wise checks for these markers.
3. Additional Analysis with a Deep Learning ONNX Model
For files without useful metadata, an ONNX classification model can inspect pixel patterns for anomalies. Selected source images are not uploaded to or stored on external editing servers.