Formærke

Formærke, also known as watermarking, is a technique used to embed a visible or invisible pattern or text into a document, image, or other media to indicate ownership, authenticity, or to prevent unauthorized copying. The term "formærke" is derived from the Danish word for watermark, which is a common method of marking paper with a distinctive pattern or text.

Watermarking can be applied to various types of media, including paper documents, digital images, videos, and even audio files. In the context of paper documents, watermarks are often used to indicate the origin or authenticity of the document. For example, official documents such as passports, certificates, and legal papers may be watermarked to prevent forgery.

In the digital realm, watermarking serves multiple purposes. It can be used to protect intellectual property by embedding a unique identifier or logo into an image or video. This makes it difficult for unauthorized users to claim the content as their own. Additionally, watermarking can be used to track the distribution of digital media, helping content creators monitor how their work is being used.

Watermarks can be visible or invisible. Visible watermarks are typically a faint pattern or text that is embedded in the background of an image or document. Invisible watermarks, on the other hand, are embedded in a way that does not affect the appearance of the media but can be detected using specialized software.

The process of watermarking involves embedding the watermark in such a way that it is resistant to common forms of tampering and manipulation. This ensures that the watermark remains intact even if the media is altered or compressed. Techniques for watermarking include digital steganography, where the watermark is hidden within the digital file itself, and physical watermarking, where the watermark is embedded in the physical properties of the media.

In summary, formærke, or watermarking, is a versatile technique used to protect and authenticate various types of media. Whether applied to paper documents or digital files, watermarking helps ensure the integrity and ownership of valuable content.