Reuters tests new blockchain tool to authenticate images

The process, which is being implemented in partnership with camera manufacturer Canon, works like this: When a photo is taken, Canon cameras automatically assign a unique identifier to each photo, including parameters such as the time, date, and location. This data is then cryptographically signed to establish its authenticity.

Illustration: Unsplash

These photos are then registered on a public ledger (blockchain) along with any subsequent edits from Reuters' photo management department. This continues until the news agency distributes the photo with all metadata, edit history, and blockchain registration embedded in it. To verify the image, news users can compare the unique identifier (hash value) on the public ledger.

To put it simply, a blockchain is a growing list of records – called blocks – that are encrypted and linked. Each block also contains a timestamp and other information about the origin of the data.

By design, blockchain is resistant to tampering with the data it contains, which can be useful when we need to protect news content from tampering.

Another advantage of data stored in the blockchain is that it has been recorded and validated by other users, be it humans or computers.

This is especially important as people become increasingly concerned about their ability to distinguish between real and fake news on the internet. Advances in AI have made it easier and cheaper than ever to create and spread fake or misleading news.

The downside is that this verification process requires a fairly good understanding of blockchain technology, which is a skill that is difficult for the average reader to acquire.

Another downside is that the technology is underpinned by a decentralized system that relies on billions of energy-hungry computers. While it is difficult to calculate the carbon footprint of this new tool, any benefits it may bring in combating misinformation may need to be weighed.

Mai Anh (according to Journalism)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/reuters-thu-nghiem-cong-cu-blockchain-moi-de-xac-thuc-hinh-anh-post263320.html