CCD fingerprint method-identification of a video camera from videotaped images

We propose a new “CCD Fingerprint” method to identify a camcorder from videotaped images. This method enables individual camera identification, which does not mean camera-model identification. The clue to the individual camera identification is obtained from nonuniformity of dark currents on CCD chips, which causes a fixed pattern noise. The pattern is quite unique and intrinsic to an individual camera. Moreover, such a pattern might be recorded on tapes. Using these features, it is expected that the nonuniformity of dark current makes it possible to specify only one camera among same model cameras. In order to observe the characteristic noise patterns, we performed experiments with 9 camcorders in 4 types by recording a blank image on videotapes. The results showed that the fixed patterns were observed in most cases by accumulating 100 frames. Furthermore, it was confirmed that each camera had its own unique pattern