Guide
Does WhatsApp remove metadata from photos and videos?
WhatsApp often strips or transforms parts of metadata, but results are not identical for every file type and send mode.
The safest pattern is still to clean files before sharing so your privacy does not depend on app-side processing.
Photo and video behavior at a glance
| Media type | Typical WhatsApp handling | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Photos | Often reprocessed in common send flows. | Clean metadata before sharing. |
| Videos | Often transformed depending on size and send mode. | Clean metadata and review visible clues. |
Last tested: 2026-02-18
Method: representative photo and MP4 files were sent through common one-to-one and group chat workflows and inspected pre/post share.
Safe workflow before sending
- Prepare the final media file you intend to send.
- Run metadata cleanup first.
- Check visible frame content for signs, names, and landmarks.
- Send only the cleaned file in chat.
- Repeat for every re-exported revision.
Frequently asked questions
Does WhatsApp remove metadata from media?
WhatsApp often modifies or strips parts of metadata in standard media sends, but outcomes vary by send mode and file path.
Why can outcomes differ between chats?
Different devices, app versions, and send methods can change how files are processed before delivery.
Should I scrub before WhatsApp if privacy matters?
Yes. Scrubbing before sharing gives you one consistent baseline regardless of how a platform transforms files later.
Can visible context still reveal location or identity?
Yes. Landmarks, usernames, and on-screen text remain visible even if metadata is reduced.