Image theft and avoiding it.

I would guess that one could find an "EXIF editor" software program that could change the EXIF data. Or even just a "screen capture" program that would make a copy of the image from the screen.

But just "disputes", in general, they are something one wants to avoid. Because the people you will be arguing with, they could be on the other side of the planet. Even within your own country, it can be a giant headache, for very little monetary compensation. In fact, more likely, almost certainly, none.

For myself, I just plan on the stuff getting stolen, and use that as my starting point. Because I don't even want to think about trying to get some sort of justice against someone so far away.

But that's just me. There are other strategies, I guess.