Best Way To Verify AI Images For Ecommerce

For online stores, AI images cut both ways. They save money on lifestyle shots and backgrounds, but supplier photos that are AI-generated or heavily altered can lead to returns, bad reviews, chargebacks and complaints of misleading advertising.

Check supplier images before you list

1. Ask for real photos or samples before listing a new product, especially from new suppliers.
2. Reverse image search supplier images with Google Lens: the same image on dozens of stores is common with dropshipping and tells you little about quality.
3. Read the file's metadata before you edit it. AI Image Detector (made by Patrick Bushe, who runs this site) reads it in Chrome and flags AI generator names, AI tags and Content Credentials. Camera details suggest a real photo.
4. Compare with the sample in color, texture and proportions.

Using AI images yourself

• Keep the product real: AI backgrounds and scenes are fine; altering the product's look, size or features isn't.
• Disclose where expected: some marketplaces, such as Etsy, ask sellers to disclose AI use in creating listings or designs.
• Keep originals of every product photo, so you can show what the real item looks like if challenged.

The legal side

Misleading product images can count as deceptive advertising under consumer protection laws, such as the FTC Act in the US. The FTC's 2024 rule also bans fake reviews, including AI-generated ones. This isn't legal advice; check the rules where you sell.

Make real photos easy to see

• Encourage customers to add photos to reviews.
• Add a short product video.
• Show the product in hand or next to a common object for scale.

A simple policy

Write down what's allowed: AI backgrounds yes, AI product changes no, every listing has at least one real photo. Share it with whoever creates your listings.

See spotting AI product photos and real vs AI images for brands.