FAQ
Questions about detecting AI-generated pictures.
Short, practical answers about AI image detector accuracy, free tools, metadata, reverse image search, screenshots and what to do when detector results disagree.
Core questions
AI image detector basics.
These answers are written for normal users who need a practical decision, not a research paper.
Can an AI image detector prove a picture is AI-generated?
No. A detector can provide a probability-style signal, but it cannot prove authorship or intent by itself. Use source history, original files, visual inspection and metadata when the decision matters.
How do AI image detectors work?
They compare pixel patterns, texture, frequency signals, artifacts and sometimes metadata against examples of real and AI-generated images. The tool then returns a confidence score or label.
Why do different detectors disagree?
Tools are trained on different datasets and may focus on different generators, artifacts or media types. New models, screenshots, compression and edits can change the result.
Are screenshots good enough for detection?
Screenshots are weaker than original files. They add compression and interface artifacts while removing metadata and original detail. If possible, use the original image.
Can a real photo be flagged as AI?
Yes. Heavy retouching, beauty filters, CGI-like lighting, HDR processing, low resolution or unusual composition can trigger false positives.
Can an AI image pass as real?
Yes. Modern generators and human editing can reduce obvious artifacts. A low AI score does not guarantee a picture is real.
Free tools
Common questions about free AI image detector websites.
Free tools are useful, but upload policies and limits matter.
Which free AI image detector websites can I try?
Try tools such as Sightengine, AI or Not, WasItAI, Is It AI, BrandWell and Illuminarty. Use more than one if the result matters.
Should I upload private images to free detector sites?
Be careful. Avoid uploading IDs, faces of private people, client files, legal evidence or confidential images unless you have reviewed the site’s privacy policy and terms.
What should I record from a detector result?
Save the detector name, date, uploaded file version, score, label, explanation and a screenshot if you need an audit trail.
Is a paid detector always better than a free one?
Not necessarily. Paid tools may offer higher limits, APIs, history or more detailed reporting, but accuracy still depends on the image, generator and post-processing.
Manual review
What else should I check?
Manual review catches context problems that detector models cannot understand.
What is the fastest manual check?
Use reverse image search, inspect the uploader account, zoom into small details, and look for an older credible source or disclosure.
Can metadata prove an image is real?
Metadata can support a camera-origin claim, but it can be stripped or edited. Missing metadata is not proof of AI generation.
What visual clues should I inspect first?
Start with hands, eyes, teeth, text, logos, reflections, shadows, object boundaries and repeated background patterns.
How should I phrase an uncertain result?
Say “this image shows AI-generation signals” or “detector results are mixed” instead of claiming certainty you do not have.