QDL-CMFD: A Quality-independent and deep Learning-based Copy-Move

image forgery detection method

One of the prevalent methods of image forgery was copy-move, where one or more
regions of an image were duplicated and moved elsewhere in the image. It was usually
difficult to detect this type of forgery due to the similarity of the copied and forged
areas. Also, forgers perform pre-processing and/or post-processing operations on the
manipulated regions. In this study, QDL-CMFD, was presented for detecting this type of
forgery. QDL-CMFD utilizes generative adversarial networks for image quality
enhancement, and convolutional neural networks (CNN) for forgery detection. QDL-
CMFD was able to simultaneous detection of several forged areas.

Images were considered as one of the most popular types of media. The importance of
this media, especially in its ability to direct the public mind, was quite clear for all. An
image can be considered as a verifier, valid document, evidence, or legal document. It
was used in many applications such as criminology research, security, military, press
photography, insurance demands, and medical imaging.
More importantly, if a forged image was used illegally, social justice and security was
damaged and questioned accordingly. Among the types of digital image forgery
methods, the copy-move was the most common way and was one of the easiest
methods.
Usually, two general goals were followed in this attack:
1) Hiding some events or areas in the image;
2) Increasing the number of objects in the image for exaggeration of something that
was not actually a big deal.
Then the traditional and common methods for detecting coy-move forgery was
categorized into two general groups: 1) block-based methods that checked all image
blocks, and 2) keypoint-based methods which focused on areas with more information
and with unique features [17]. However, both approaches follow a general framework
including three steps [8]: 1) feature extraction, 2) feature matching, and 3) post-
processing. In this research, for detecting the copy-move image forgeries, a tailored
dual-branch CNN architecture was introduced consisting of two subnetworks, namely a
manipulation detection subnetwork and a similarity detection subnetwork.
The contributions:
- A blind quality assessment method was utilized to evaluate the input image ;
- A CNN was used for fast forgery detection;
- The proposed method can detect several forged areas simultaneously ;
- The proposed method was able to determine the source and target of the
forgery.
The future search:
- the use of the architecture of GANs to create a large-scale, high-quality synthetic
dataset that can be utilized more effectively in training the DNNs;
- he automated preparation of the ground truth mask capable of distinguishing
between copy-move forgery source and destination;
 Look for gap: In most of the traditional and common methods for detecting
coy-move forgery, the similarity of small blocks of the image is
compared to each other. For this purpose, many methods in this
area have been proposed. Despite the diversity of these methods,
they can be categorized into two general groups: 1) block-based
methods that check all image blocks, and 2) keypoint-based methods which focus on areas with more information and with
unique
features [17]. However, both approaches follow a general framework including three steps [8]: 1) feature extraction, 2)
feature
matching, and 3) post-processing.
Considering the framework of the copy-move forgery detection
(CMFD), most of the challenges are due to the manipulation attacks
during the forgery, self-correlation, and computational complexity
[18]. In addition, the detection of small forged areas, and handling
the small or low-quality images by existing CMFD methods are
very difficult [16,18,19]. Existing methods do not perform well
on this kind of image, and it seems that the main shortcoming is
in their feature extraction stage
Advantage: the proposed pre-processing approach for no-reference assessment
and image quality improvement, which is one of the most important challenges in this
area for detection of small forge regions and unclear images, is well performed. Another
advantage of the proposed method is the ability to detect several forged regions
simultaneously.
Result : The results of experimental evaluations indicated that the proposed method is
very fast and has a significantly lower computational load in the application phase in
addition to the above-mentioned essential advantages, which in turn, further improves
the performance of this method in real-world applications.

What is the QDL-CMFD method and how does it work? : The QDL-CMFD (Quality-
independent Deep Learning-based CMFD) method is an efficient and quality-independent
approach based on deep learning for detecting copy-move image forgery ,[2],. It addresses
the challenges of low-resolution and low-quality images, as well as the detection of small
forged areas. The method consists of several key components and steps:

1. **Quality Assessment**: A blind (reference-less) quality assessment algorithm is used to

evaluate the input image and enhance its quality prior to forgery detection. This assessment
is crucial for dealing with low-quality images and detecting small forged areas.

2. **Image Quality Improvement**: An optimized image quality improvement scheme, based

on generative adversarial networks (GANs), is applied to enhance the quality of the input
image. This step aims to improve the resolution and overall quality of the image, making it
more suitable for forgery detection.

3. **Dual-Branch CNN Architecture**: QDL-CMFD utilizes a tailored dual-branch CNN

architecture, consisting of two subnetworks: a manipulation detection subnetwork and a
similarity (copied region) detection subnetwork. The manipulation detection subnetwork
serves as a segmentation module, aimed at identifying and segmenting the manipulated
regions in the image. The similarity detection subnetwork is responsible for detecting similar
regions in the image.
4. **Forged Region Detection**: The combination of the results from the two subnetworks
produces the forged and non-forged regions, as well as identifies the source and target of
the forgery. Unlike most existing methods, QDL-CMFD is capable of detecting several forged
areas simultaneously, providing a comprehensive analysis of the image forgeries.

The method is designed to be robust against different types of pre-processing and post-
processing attacks, and it outperforms competitors in terms of accuracy and efficiency [2].
Additionally, QDL-CMFD has shown resistance against various post-processing attacks and
has demonstrated superior performance in comparison to other well-known methods [13],
[11],[10].
How does the use of generative adversarial networks and convolutional neural
networks improve the accuracy of forgery detection?
: The use of generative adversarial networks (GANs) and
convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in the QDL-CMFD method significantly improves
the accuracy of forgery detection in several ways:

1. **Image Quality Enhancement**: Generative adversarial networks (GANs) are utilized

for image quality enhancement. GANs are known for their ability to generate high-
quality, realistic images. In the context of QDL-CMFD, GANs are employed to enhance
the quality of the input image, particularly addressing issues related to low resolution
and low image quality. By improving the quality of the input image, the overall
performance of forgery detection is enhanced, especially in the case of low-quality
images [2].

2. **Feature Learning and Detection**: Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are

employed for forgery detection. CNNs are well-suited for image-related tasks and have
the capability to automatically learn relevant characteristics and features from the input
images during the training stage. In the context of QDL-CMFD, CNNs are used to detect
manipulated regions and similar regions within the image. The tailored dual-branch CNN
architecture in QDL-CMFD allows for efficient feature learning and detection, leading to
accurate identification of forged and non-forged regions, as well as the source and
target of the forgery [3] ,[2].

3. **Robustness Against Attacks**: The combination of GANs for image quality

enhancement and CNNs for forgery detection results in a method that is robust against
various pre-processing and post-processing attacks. This robustness is crucial for
ensuring the accuracy and reliability of forgery detection, especially in the presence of
common image manipulation techniques and attacks. QDL-CMFD's use of GANs and
CNNs contributes to its ability to withstand such attacks and maintain high accuracy in
detecting image forgeries [2],[2],[1].

In summary, the integration of GANs and CNNs in the QDL-CMFD method enhances the
overall accuracy, robustness, and performance of forgery detection, particularly in
challenging scenarios involving low-quality images, small forged areas, and various types
of image manipulation attacks.
Can the QDL-CMFD method detect copy-move forgeries even when the manipulated
regions have undergone pre-processing and/or post-processing operations? :
Yes, the QDL-CMFD method is designed to detect copy-move forgeries even when the
manipulated regions have undergone pre-processing and/or post-processing operations.
This robustness against various pre-processing and post-processing attacks is a key
feature of the QDL-CMFD method, setting it apart from many existing forgery detection
approaches [ 2],[1].

The combination of generative adversarial networks (GANs) for image quality

enhancement and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for forgery detection
contributes to the method's resilience against common image manipulation techniques
and attacks. Specifically, the tailored dual-branch CNN architecture in QDL-CMFD is
robust against pre-processing and post-processing attacks, including geometric
transformations and other common image manipulation operations [4],[1].

Furthermore, the method's ability to simultaneously detect several forged areas and
accurately identify the source and target of the forgery, even in the presence of pre-
processing and post-processing operations, demonstrates its effectiveness in challenging
scenarios [2],[13],[2].

In summary, the QDL-CMFD method is capable of detecting copy-move forgeries in

images, even when the manipulated regions have undergone pre-processing and/or
post-processing operations, making it a reliable and robust solution for forgery
detection in real-world applications.
LR
Title: A Literature Review of "QDL-CMFD: A Quality-independent and Deep Learning-
based Copy-Move Image Forgery Detection Method"

Introduction:
The detection of image forgeries, particularly copy-move forgeries, has become
increasingly important due to the widespread use of digital images in various
applications. In response to the challenges associated with detecting copy-move
forgeries, Mehrad Aria, Mahdi Hashemzadeh, and Nacer Farajzadeh proposed a novel
method called QDL-CMFD (Quality-independent Deep Learning-based CMFD). This
literature review aims to provide an overview and critical analysis of the QDL-CMFD
method, its contributions, and its impact on the field of image forgery detection.

Methodology:
The QDL-CMFD method utilizes a combination of generative adversarial networks
(GANs) for image quality enhancement and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for
forgery detection. It employs a tailored dual-branch CNN architecture, consisting of a
manipulation detection subnetwork and a similarity detection subnetwork, to
simultaneously detect several forged areas and accurately identify the source and target
of the forgery. The method's robustness against pre-processing and post-processing
attacks, as well as its performance in detecting low-quality forged images and small
areas, sets it apart from existing forgery detection approaches.

Contributions:
The QDL-CMFD method makes several significant contributions to the field of image
forgery detection:
1. Blind Quality Assessment: It utilizes a blind quality assessment algorithm to evaluate
and enhance the quality of input images, addressing the challenges of low-resolution
and low-quality images.
2. Dual-Branch CNN Architecture: The method introduces a tailored dual-branch CNN
architecture, enabling fast forgery detection and robustness against various pre-
processing/post-processing attacks.
3. Simultaneous Detection and Source Identification: Unlike most existing methods,
QDL-CMFD is capable of simultaneously detecting several forged areas and accurately
determining the source and target of the forgery, providing a comprehensive analysis of
image forgeries.

Impact and Significance:

The QDL-CMFD method has demonstrated superior performance in detecting copy-
move forgeries, particularly in scenarios involving low-quality images and various image
manipulation attacks. Its robustness against pre-processing and post-processing
operations, as well as its ability to accurately identify forged regions and their sources,
makes it a valuable contribution to the field of image forgery detection. The method's
impact is further evidenced by its outperformance of existing competitors in terms of
accuracy and efficiency, as confirmed by extensive experiments conducted on
benchmark image datasets.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the QDL-CMFD method represents a significant advancement in the field
of image forgery detection. Its innovative use of GANs and CNNs, coupled with its
robustness against attacks and its ability to detect forged regions in challenging
scenarios, positions it as a valuable and impactful solution for addressing the growing
concerns related to image forgeries. The method's contributions and performance
underscore its potential to influence future research and applications in the domain of
digital image forensics.

Title: A Literature Review of "QDL-CMFD: A Quality-independent and Deep Learning-

based Copy-Move Image Forgery Detection Method"

Introduction:
The detection of image forgeries, particularly copy-move forgeries, has become
increasingly important due to the widespread use of digital images in various
applications. In response to the challenges associated with detecting copy-move
forgeries, Mehrad Aria, Mahdi Hashemzadeh, and Nacer Farajzadeh proposed a novel
method called QDL-CMFD (Quality-independent Deep Learning-based CMFD). This
literature review aims to provide an overview and critical analysis of the QDL-CMFD
method, its contributions, and its impact on the field of image forgery detection.

Methodology:
The QDL-CMFD method utilizes a combination of generative adversarial networks
(GANs) for image quality enhancement and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for
forgery detection. It employs a tailored dual-branch CNN architecture, consisting of a
manipulation detection subnetwork and a similarity detection subnetwork, to
simultaneously detect several forged areas and accurately identify the source and target
of the forgery. The method's robustness against pre-processing and post-processing
attacks, as well as its performance in detecting low-quality forged images and small
areas, sets it apart from existing forgery detection approaches.

Contributions:
The QDL-CMFD method makes several significant contributions to the field of image
forgery detection:
1. Blind Quality Assessment: It utilizes a blind quality assessment algorithm to evaluate
and enhance the quality of input images, addressing the challenges of low-resolution
and low-quality images [2].
2. Dual-Branch CNN Architecture: The method introduces a tailored dual-branch CNN
architecture, enabling fast forgery detection and robustness against various pre-
processing/post-processing attacks [1].
3. Simultaneous Detection and Source Identification: Unlike most existing methods,
QDL-CMFD is capable of simultaneously detecting several forged areas and accurately
determining the source and target of the forgery, providing a comprehensive analysis of
image forgeries [3].

Impact and Significance:

The QDL-CMFD method has demonstrated superior performance in detecting copy-
move forgeries, particularly in scenarios involving low-quality images and various image
manipulation attacks. Its robustness against pre-processing and post-processing
operations, as well as its ability to accurately identify forged regions and their sources,
makes it a valuable contribution to the field of image forgery detection. The method's
impact is further evidenced by its outperformance of existing competitors in terms of
accuracy and efficiency, as confirmed by extensive experiments conducted on
benchmark image datasets [1].

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the QDL-CMFD method represents a significant advancement in the field
of image forgery detection. Its innovative use of GANs and CNNs, coupled with its
robustness against attacks and its ability to detect forged regions in challenging
scenarios, positions it as a valuable and impactful solution for addressing the growing
concerns related to image forgeries. The method's contributions and performance
underscore its potential to influence future research and applications in the domain of
digital image forensics .

References:
[1] Aria, M., Hashemzadeh, M., & Farajzadeh, N. (2022). QDL-CMFD: A Quality-
independent and Deep Learning-based Copy-Move image forgery detection method.
Neurocomputing, 511, 213-236.
[3] Toldo, R., & Fusiello, A. (2008). Robust multiple structures estimation with J-Linkage.
European Conference on Computer Vision, 537-547.
[2], Lim, B., Son, S., Kim, H., Nah, S., & Lee, K. M. (2017). Enhanced deep residual
networks for single image super-resolution. Proceedings of the IEEE Conference on
Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Workshops, 136-144.

……The limitations of the paper "QDL-CMFD: A Quality-independent and

Deep Learning-based Copy-Move image forgery detection method" are not explicitly
stated in the provided excerpts. However, based on the information available, potential
limitations may include:

1. Dataset Specificity: The performance of the QDL-CMFD method is evaluated based on

specific benchmark datasets (CASIA and CoMoFoD). The generalization of the method's
performance across diverse datasets or real-world scenarios may not be fully explored.

2. Computational Complexity: While the paper mentions the use of deep learning
approaches, it does not provide a detailed analysis of the computational complexity of
the proposed method. The computational requirements and efficiency of the method in
real-time applications or large-scale image datasets are not thoroughly discussed.

3. Evaluation Metrics: The paper may not extensively discuss the choice of evaluation
metrics used to assess the performance of the QDL-CMFD method. The selection and
justification of specific metrics for forgery detection accuracy, precision, recall, and
computational efficiency could be further elaborated.

4. Comparison with State-of-the-Art: While the paper claims superior performance

compared to competitors, a more comprehensive comparison with state-of-the-art
forgery detection methods, including traditional and deep learning-based approaches,
could provide a clearer understanding of the method's strengths and weaknesses.

5. Lack of Real-World Application Scenarios: The paper may not provide detailed insights
into the real-world application scenarios and practical implications of the QDL-CMFD
method. The discussion on potential challenges or limitations in real-world deployment
is not explicitly addressed.

It's important to note that these limitations are speculative based on the information
available in the provided excerpts, and a comprehensive understanding of the paper
would require a full review of the entire document.
GAPS
Based on the provided excerpts, the potential gaps or areas for further development in
the paper "QDL-CMFD: A Quality-independent and Deep Learning-based Copy-Move
image forgery detection method" may include:

1. Interpretability and Explainability: The paper may not extensively address the
interpretability and explainability of the proposed method. Providing insights into how
the deep learning model makes decisions and identifying the specific features or
patterns used for forgery detection could enhance the transparency and trustworthiness
of the method.

2. Generalization to Diverse Forgery Types: While the paper focuses on copy-move

forgery detection, there may be a gap in addressing the generalization of the method to
detect other types of image forgeries, such as splicing, retouching, or morphing.
Exploring the adaptability of the method to a broader range of forgery types could
enhance its applicability in real-world scenarios.

3. Robustness to Adversarial Attacks: The robustness of the QDL-CMFD method against

adversarial attacks, where malicious attempts are made to deceive the forgery detection
system, is not explicitly discussed. Investigating the method's resilience to adversarial
manipulations and potential countermeasures could be a valuable area for further
research.

4. Real-Time Implementation and Scalability: The paper may not thoroughly address the
real-time implementation and scalability of the proposed method, particularly in the
context of processing large-scale image datasets or deployment in resource-constrained
environments. Exploring the computational efficiency and scalability of the method
could bridge the gap between research and practical applications.

5. Ethical and Legal Implications: The paper does not explicitly discuss the ethical and
legal implications of forgery detection methods, such as privacy concerns, data
protection, and potential misuse of forensic technologies. Addressing the ethical
considerations and societal impact of forgery detection methods is essential for
responsible research and development in this field.

6. User-Friendly Interface and Integration: While the focus is on the technical aspects of
forgery detection, there may be a gap in addressing the user interface design and
integration of the QDL-CMFD method into existing forensic tools or platforms.
Considering the usability and practical integration of the method in forensic workflows
could enhance its adoption by practitioners.

It's important to note that these gaps are identified based on the information available
in the provided excerpts, and a comprehensive understanding of the paper would
require a full review of the entire document.
Computer vision has a wide range of applications across various fields. Some of the key
applications of computer vision include:

1. **Autonomous Vehicles**: Computer vision is used for object detection, lane

tracking, and obstacle avoidance in self-driving cars and other autonomous vehicles.

2. **Medical Image Analysis**: Computer vision is employed for tasks such as tumor
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anomaly detection in security systems.

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manipulation in robotic systems.

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manufacturing lines, detecting defects, and ensuring quality control.

7. **Retail and E-commerce**: Computer vision is employed for product recognition,

visual search, and augmented reality try-on experiences in retail and e-commerce
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8. **Sports Analytics**: It is used for tracking player movements, analyzing game

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These are just a few examples, and the applications of computer vision continue to
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