Answer: art and AI
How to protect my art from AIYou can reduce exposure and keep records, but you cannot fully block AI
TimeBinder adds a layer of protection against AI and human fraud and disputes.
The file stays on your device. Your browser makes a digital fingerprint of the file. TimeBinder records the fingerprint and the time, not the file.
Short answer
You cannot fully stop AI training on art that is public, but you can reduce exposure: check each platform’s AI settings, use opt-out options where offered, limit high-resolution posting, and keep dated records of your originals. A TimeBind does not block AI use.
Steps that help, and limits to know about
Be wary of anything that promises to “block AI” completely. Once an image is public, copies can be scraped or reposted, and opt-outs depend on the company respecting them. Practical steps that can help:
- Check each platform’s settings and terms for AI training or opt-out controls, and re-check them, because policies change.
- Where you run your own site, you can ask AI crawlers to stay away with robots.txt rules; our AI crawler opt-out generator writes them. Compliance is voluntary on the crawler’s side.
- Post lower-resolution previews and keep full-size files private.
- Consider visible watermarks or tools that add protective noise, and understand that their effectiveness is contested and may not last.
- Read the AI terms of the tools and platforms you use; see our ArtStation AI declaration checklist and Figma AI terms checklist.
Keeping a record of your originals
Protection is one half; evidence of your process is the other. Keep your layered files, sketches and exports, and date the finished originals. A TimeBind records a SHA-256 fingerprint of the exact file and a time, anchored to Bitcoin. The fingerprint is made in your browser and the file is not uploaded. It shows the file existed no later than the recorded time and still matches.
It does not stop anyone training on your work, and it does not establish ownership, authorship or copyright. For legal questions, speak to a lawyer where you live.
First Pooled TimeBind free, no card, then from US$5. An ASAP TimeBind is US$15.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stop AI from using my art completely?
Not completely. Public images can be copied and scraped. You can reduce exposure with platform settings, opt-outs, lower-resolution posting and robots.txt rules, but compliance is up to others.
Do art protection tools that add noise work?
Results are contested and may not last as AI tools change. Treat them as one layer, not a guarantee.
What records help if my art is copied?
Layered working files, sketches, dated exports and a dated record of the final file can help show your process and what you held at a given time.
Does a TimeBind block AI from using my art?
No. It records a fingerprint and a time for a file. It does not prevent scraping or training and does not prove ownership.
Sources
- TimeBinder, AI crawler opt-out generator.
- TimeBinder, ArtStation AI declaration checklist.
Related guides and tools
- AI crawler opt-out generatorWrite robots.txt rules for AI crawlers
- ArtStation AI declaration checklistPlatform AI rules for artists
- Figma AI terms checklistCheck tool terms before you upload
- Prove a design or drawing existed firstDate your original
- Glossary: AI training opt-outWhat an opt-out does and does not do
- All answersShort answers to common file-proof questions
Record a fingerprint of the file you rely on
Add a layer of protection against AI and human fraud and disputes: a dated, checkable record of the exact file you hold.
- Open the app and sign in with email or Google.
- Add your files. They stay on your computer.
- Seal them and download your Proof of Time certificates.
First Pooled TimeBind free, no card, then from US$5. See pricing.