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StegZero

Hide secret messages in plain sight using zero-width characters

Secure
Invisible
Instant
Input
Process
Result

Encode Message

This text will be visible to everyone - choose something natural and inconspicuous
0 characters
Keep it short and simple for better concealment
0 characters
Encode your hidden message into the visible text using zero-width characters
Encoded message will appear here.
Copy the encoded message to your clipboard

Decode Message

Paste any text that might contain hidden zero-width characters
0 characters
Decode any hidden messages from the provided text
Decoded message will appear here.
Copy the decoded hidden message to your clipboard

How StegZero Hides Messages Using Zero-Width Characters

What is Steganography?

  • Steganography is the practice of concealing messages or information within other non-secret text or data.
  • It can be used to hide text within images, audio files, video files, or even other text files.
  • The goal is to ensure that the presence of the hidden message is not detectable by casual observation.
  • Steganography is often used in conjunction with cryptography to provide an additional layer of security.

The Technical Process of Hiding Messages

  • Converts your hidden message into binary format, using an 8-bit binary string for each character.
  • Splits the binary message into 6-bit chunks and pads the last chunk if necessary.
  • Uses zero-width characters to represent binary digits: zero-width space (​) represents '0,' and zero-width non-joiner (‌) represents '1.'
  • Embeds these invisible characters into the visible text, making the hidden message undetectable at first glance.
  • The hidden message remains concealed within the visible content, without affecting its appearance.
  • During decoding, extracts zero-width characters from the encoded text and converts them back to binary.
  • Groups the binary message into 8-bit chunks and decodes it back to the original message.

Best Practices for Hiding Text with Zero-Width Characters

  • Keep hidden messages short and concise to avoid detection.
  • Use simple, unmodified visible text for embedding the hidden message.
  • Test the encoded message on the intended platform to ensure the zero-width characters are preserved.
  • Maintain a backup of important hidden messages in case the invisible characters are removed by text editors.

Limitations of Zero-Width Steganography

  • Not all platforms or text editors preserve zero-width characters, which can result in the loss of the hidden message.
  • Zero-width steganography is not suitable for secure communication, as it can be detected by those familiar with the method.
  • Some text editors or platforms may strip invisible characters, rendering the hidden message unreadable.
  • This method should only be used where security is not a primary concern.

Important Note

This tool is intended for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not a secure encryption method and should not be used for sensitive or confidential information. For secure communication, consider using proper encryption tools.

Quick Tips & Best Practices

Keep It Short

Shorter hidden messages are less likely to be detected. Aim for concise and meaningful text.

Mobile Friendly

Works seamlessly on all devices with responsive design and touch-friendly controls.

Privacy First

All processing happens locally in your browser. No data is sent to external servers.