How to Share Files Safely

Before sharing a file

Check both the visible content and the hidden metadata. Metadata removal helps reduce hidden exposure, but it does not replace human review.

Checklist

• Rename the file if the filename contains private information.
• Scan metadata before sending or posting.
• Remove GPS, author, device, and software fields when they are not needed.
• Check visible text, faces, addresses, comments, and tracked changes.
• Download the cleaned copy and open it before sharing.
• Use a privacy report for client, legal, or company workflows.

For photos

Remove GPS and camera details before public posts, marketplace listings, or screenshots.

For documents

Clean author, company, template, revision, and PDF properties. Also review comments and visible tracked changes.

For video and audio

Clean creation dates, device tags, encoder tags, artist fields, comments, and cover art when they are not meant to be public.