Duplicate-image cleanup is safer when exact copies and visually similar files are treated as different problems.
Exact duplicates
Exact duplicates have matching file hashes. They are byte-for-byte copies, but their WordPress attachment records and references can still differ. Choose a keeper only after reviewing where each attachment is used.
Similar images
Similar images are different files that look alike. They may be alternate crops, compressed exports, product variations, old mockups, or current campaign assets. Similarity is a review prompt, not proof that either file can be deleted.
Why filenames and dimensions are not enough
Two images can share dimensions without sharing content, and renamed copies can be exact matches. Hash evidence, visual review, and reference evidence answer different parts of the decision.
Review duplicates in Media Sentry · View screenshots · Duplicate workflow · Support