Google’s New Privacy Update

Users Can Now Request Removal of Personal Contact Information from Google Search Results

Google is rolling out a new feature that lets its users request the removal of private information from their web search results. This feature allows users to remove some of their personal information directly through Google, giving users the chance to clean up their online image so that their info is not inadvertently showing up in search results. Users can request the removal of their information through a web form or by sending an email to Google and demanding the removal.

Why Is This a Concern?

No matter how well we keep our personal information hidden online, there will often be someone searching around the inside and pointing out what they see. 

Sometimes, Google will display highly personal and private information. This could contain sensitive information, such as financial information (like credit card or banking details), passwords, health information, contact numbers, email addresses, home addresses, etc. 

Google’s new removal tool makes it easier to remove financial information or contact information from search results pages.

How Do You Use Google’s Removal Request Tool

You can request the removal of all of your information from Google so that no one can ever see your personal information. Google has been very transparent about the process, and it is easy to do. 

How to Request Removal of Personal Info On Google:  

The removal request tool is straightforward to use and takes about 5-10 minutes. Here’s how you can remove your personal information through Google’s new update:

1. Go to Google’s Request a Removal page. 

2. Fill out the first few questions about your removal of personal information, financial information, etc.

3. Notify Google whether you have attempted to contact the site owner (or the reason why you haven’t)

4. Submit the URL of the content in question

5. Submit the URL of the Google Search result page that the web link appears on

6. As part of the form, there’s a section to take a screenshot of the content you wish to remove and attach.

7. You’ll need to indicate why you think the website has exploitative removal practices.

8. Click submit. After submitting your request to Google, you will receive an automated email to the email address listed on your list as part of the form.

What Else Should I Know About Google Search Results?

When you go through the Google Removal Request process, it’s essential to note that you are only removing information from Google searches and not from the internet. Even though Google may agree to remove personal information from displaying in search results, your information will still exist online and can be found by other users. To remove negative content from the internet entirely, it’s always encouraged to first reach out to the website owner. 

What Won’t Google Remove?

Personal information that is part of the public records, such as newsworthy data or material posted to government sites or other official outlets, will not be removed. 

• public records
• news article
• government files

Conclusion

Google is offering its users direct access for anyone to be able to remove personal information. Google’s momentous new update lets you request the removal of unwanted personal contact information like addresses, emails, phone numbers, or credit card information displayed on search engine results pages.

William DiAntonio, Founder and CEO of Reputation911, points out that It’s important to remember that removing content from Google Search won’t remove it from the internet. It will still be able to be accessed directly from the hosting site.  

A Reputation Management Company Can Help with Full Removal 

Want to learn more about what personal information may still be online about you? Reputation911 provides personal reputation management services for individuals, including online reputation management. The experts at Reputation911 are here to help you create a more favorable reputation online. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.