What is OCR?

When it comes to content moderation many platforms will require OCR. This is to ensure that text in image and documents are compliant with a platform’s community guidelines. But what exactly is it? Firstly, it should be noted that OCR is different from an AI text moderation model. OCR stands for optical character recognition. It is a technology that allows machines to convert different types of documents, such as scanned paper documents, PDF files, or images into editable and searchable data.

Many companies use different strategies when it comes to their OCR models. But here is how the crux of it works:

1.Text extraction: OCR is employed to extract text from images or scanned documents. When users upload content such as memes, screenshots, or scanned documents containing text, OCR technology scans these images to extract any textual information present.

2. Language detection: After extracting text, language detection algorithms may be applied to identify the language(s) used in the content. This step is important for applying appropriate or offensive content. This may involve profanity detection algorithms that scan for offensive language, or keywords commonly associated with inappropriate content.

3. Filtering and profanity detection: the extracted text is then processed through filtering mechanisms to identify and flag potentially inappropriate or offensive content. This may involve profanity detection algorithms that scan for offensive language or keywords.

4.Contextual analysis: in addition to simple keyword filtering, advanced OCR systems may analyse the context in which certain words or phrases are used.

5. Images and text integration: OCR technology can also be integrated with image analysis algorithms to provide a comprehensive understanding of the content. This includes analysing both text and visual elements of an image to detect and flag content that may be harmful, misleading, or inappropriate.

6. Automation and human review: depending on the platform, OCR based filtering may be followed by automated actions such as content removal, flagging for human review, or applying warning labels.

Overall, OCR technology plays a crucial role in content moderation by enabling platforms to analyse text content within images or scanned documents, identify potentially harmful or inappropriate material, and take appropriate action to maintain a safe and compliant online environment.