What is MetaWipe?
MetaWipe is a privacy-focused tool designed to remove metadata from files such as photographs and PDF documents. Metadata often contains personally identifiable information (PII), GPS location, timestamps, and other details that could compromise user privacy. By using MetaWipe, users can ensure their files do not inadvertently reveal sensitive information when shared.
Who would use MetaWipe?
MetaWipe is intended for individuals who share files online and need to protect their privacy. Common users include:
- Business professionals handling confidential documents
- Photographers and content creators sharing images
- Journalists and activists requiring anonymity
- Everyday users concerned about data tracking
System Requirements
- Operating System: macOS 11+
- Hardware: Minimum 4GB RAM, recommended 8GB+
- Storage: At least 50MB free disk space
- Additional Requirements: Internet access for downloading updates and license validation.
Installing
Installing MetaWipe via Mac App Store
- Open the App Store on your Mac.
- Search for MetaWipe.
- Click Get, then Install.
- Open MetaWipe from the Applications folder.
To install MetaWipe from SecureMac directly
- Visit https://www.securemac.com/metawipe
- Click the download link and open the downloaded file.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install MetaWipe.
- Open MetaWipe from the Applications folder.
Uninstalling
- From the Applications folder, drag MetaWipe to Trash.
- Empty Trash.
User Interface
MetaWipe features an intuitive interface designed for ease of use. The main interface includes:
- Drag-and-Drop Zone – Place files here to process them.
- Historical Log – Displays processed file history.
- Settings Menu – Configure settings and actions
- Advanced Settings – Configure folders and types of metadata.
- Logging – Access historical logs and configure log settings
- MetaWipe Credits – Access to purchase credits as needed.
Metadata Removal
- Removes GPS location, timestamps, camera details, and personally identifiable information (PII) from photos and PDF documents.
- Supports batch processing for multiple files.
- Preserves original file integrity while removing metadata.
- Custom folder locations for backups and wiped files
Supported File Formats
- 30 file formats:
- Images: jpeg, jpg, jpe, png, gif, tiff, tif, jp2, jpf, jpx, j2k, j2c, ktx, astc, dds, heic, heics, ico, bmp, dib, icns, psd, tga, exr, pbm, pgm, ppm, pfm, pvr
- Documents: pdf
Basic Workflow
- Open MetaWipe or use the contextual menu (right click)
- Drag and drop files into the Drag-and-Drop Zone.
- Files will be processed as per configured in the settings.
Custom file locations
Files can be saved in place or to a custom sub-directory.
Files can be backed up to a sub-directory prior to being wiped.
Customizing Settings
You can configure automatic wiping settings and choose which metadata types to remove.
Historical Log
All actions are logged and are viewable and exportable.
Batch Processing
- Select multiple files/folders and remove metadata in bulk.
- Supported files will be processed, unsupported files will be skipped.
Context Menu Integration (Right Click)
Right-click files and select Wipe metadata with MetaWipe for quick processing based on your configured settings.
Common Issues & Solutions
File Not Processing? Ensure the file format is supported.
Metadata Still Visible? Some applications cache metadata; try re-opening the file.
Performance Issues? Close other applications and retry processing.
Does MetaWipe alter my files?
MetaWipe removes metadata and avoids affecting the file quality.
Can I recover removed metadata?
Once metadata is wiped, it cannot be restored. Keep a backup if needed.
Is MetaWipe compatible with cloud storage?
Yes, processed files can be uploaded to any cloud service.