How to detect if an image was created by artificial intelligence: tools, extensions, and tricks to avoid falling into the trap

We live in a time where artificial intelligence can create images so realistic that it is increasingly difficult to distinguish them from authentic photographsThe popularity of platforms such as Midjourney, DALL-E, Stable Diffusion or cloud tools have brought with them a rise of AI-generated images, which poses challenges in terms of security, misinformation and privacy.

Given this scenario, the need to detect AI-generated images has become essential for professionals, teachers, journalists, and users concerned about the veracity of digital content. Fortunately, A multitude of Chrome extensions, online applications, plugins and complementary methods to find out if an image is AIBelow, we'll explain in detail all the options available to you to unmask fake images and protect yourself against visual manipulation.

Why is it important to know if an image was created by AI?

Nowadays, The line between the real and the artificial is increasingly blurred (the images above are a clear example of this). AI-created images can be used in fake news, disinformation campaigns, visual scams, or even to alter public opinionThey can also appear on social media, in the media, or as part of deepfakes, and In many cases, the manipulation is imperceptible to the naked eye..

Regulations regarding the identification of AI-generated images are still under development. Few platforms include watermarks or metadata reliable, so the best way to protect yourself is to use the specialized tools currently available, both extensions and web services. This is relevant for journalists and educators who want to avoid spreading manipulated content, companies concerned about their brand reputation, and any user who values ​​the veracity of online content.

Top Chrome extensions to detect AI-generated images

The Chrome extensions They have gained prominence due to their ease of use and their integration into the daily browsing flow. They allow you to analyze images on the fly without having to leave the page. Here's a selection of the most recommended:

• Hive AI Detector: It stands out for its ability to analyze not only images but also text, audio, and video from the browser itself. It allows you to quickly scan any content, analyzing the likelihood that it was generated by AI. It can be used by uploading files or directly on images that appear on websites or social media, with a simple right-click.
• AI Image Detector: Very easy to install and use, it performs analysis in seconds and is based on updated machine learning models. Although it's highly effective, it doesn't always detect newer generators and requires an internet connection to work.
• AI Detector – BitMind: Designed to protect against scams, fake news, and visual manipulation. It is especially accurate on social media and prioritizes user privacy, ensuring that personal data is not shared with third parties. Its frequent updates keep it at the forefront of new AI techniques.
• Winston AI: In addition to detecting AI-generated text with an accuracy rate of over 99%, its Chrome extension allows you to scan documents in real time. It's ideal for teachers or editors who want to check if a text or image was generated by artificial intelligence.
• Copyleaks AI Content Detector: Highly recognized among educational institutions for its analytical capabilities in over 30 languages, it's useful for detecting whether content was generated by AI, even after editing.
• GPTZero Origin: Focused on detecting whether texts or images were generated using ChatGPT. It's a reliable option in academic and journalistic environments.
• Originality AI: Although it primarily focuses on text, its Chrome extension helps writers and editors verify the authenticity of digital content.
• Pre-AI Search: Filter search results to show only images verified as human-made, useful for avoiding AI-generated content in research.

Related article:

How to detect if apps are spying on you in the background on Android

Popular web tools for AI image unmasking

In addition to browser extensions, specialized web tools allow you to analyze images by uploading the file directly to the platform:

• AI Image Hugging Face Detector: It allows you to drag and drop images to assess the likelihood that they are the work of an AI. While it has a 90% accuracy rate and is optimized for digital art, it may fail with recent models like the Midjourney 5, SDXL, or DALL-E 3, as they were not part of its training.
• Was it AI: It works simply: you upload an image, and it displays emojis indicating whether it was created by AI (a robot) or a human (a face). It's useful, although it can be misleading if the image has been edited afterward.
• Verify Content Credentials: Analyzes image metadata and digital credentials. It is effective with images generated by DALL-E or Microsoft Designer, which often include source information to identify AI creations. It supports multiple file formats and is reliable when the image retains its original credentials.

Complementary methods to identify fake or manipulated images

Although web extensions and tools are useful, There are manual and complementary methods which provide valuable clues about the authenticity of an image:

• Reverse lookup: Platforms like Google Images, Bing, or Yandex allow you to upload a photo to see where it has been used previously, helping to detect edits or manipulations. You can also use Google Lens, especially from mobile or Chrome, to perform a quick visual search where you can identify elements in the image, find their origin, or search for similar versions directly from that context.
• Metadata Review: Many digital images contain EXIF ​​metadata. Tools like Verify can reveal this information, helping you identify the file's origin.
• Forensic analysis with plugins: InVid-WeVerify as a Chrome extension offers advanced features to detect altered pixels or subtle manipulations, allowing you to extract and analyze video frames in cases of deepfake.
• Visual inspection: Although AI is making significant progress, it still makes mistakes in complex details like hands, eyes, or elaborate backgrounds. Observing these elements can reveal anomalies.

Advantages of using Chrome extensions and AI detectors

Using extensions and web tools to detect AI-generated images offers multiple expected benefits:

• Immediate access: They allow you to analyze any image directly from the browser, without additional applications.
• Results in real time: Quick responses are key for professionals working under tight deadlines.
• Privacy and control: Tools like BitMind ensure you don't share data with third parties, reinforcing trust.
• Regular updates: Some are constantly updated to counter new generative AI techniques.

Current limitations and challenges of AI image detectors

Although Technology has advanced a lot in detection When it comes to AI images, there are limitations that should be taken into account:

• No detector is infallible: Accuracy is around 90%, but AI is evolving rapidly and launching techniques to circumvent controls.
• Constantly updated: It is essential that detectors incorporate recent samples from the most advanced generators to remain effective.
• Connection dependency: Many tools require internet access, which can be a disadvantage in certain environments.
• False positives and negatives: Some human images can be classified as AI and vice versa, especially if they have been edited afterwards.
• They do not replace human review: In the event of suspicious results, it is advisable to consult experts before making any important decisions.

Good practices to protect yourself against fake images

Given the complexity of the digital landscape, it is advisable combine various tools and methods to verify authenticity:

• Usa multiple detectors before accepting an image as true.
• Perform reverse lookup to know the origin and distribution of the image.
• Check the metadata of the archive when it is possible.
• For videos, extract and analyzes frames individually.
• consult an expert if the image is for professional or media use.
• Stay informed about new AI techniques and update your tools periodically.

Avoiding scams, manipulation, or the spread of fake content requires good fact-checking habits and the best tools available. The proliferation of AI-generated images has rapidly changed the digital landscape, making it essential to be cautious before sharing any visual content online.

Alberto navarro

I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.

If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.