In a recent move to give users more control over their online experiences, Google has rolled out a new policy allowing people to request the removal of personal, sexually explicit photos from its search results.
This feature is part of a trio of updates aimed at empowering users and enhancing their control over the content available through Google’s widely-used search engine. Danny Sullivan, Google’s public liaison for search, explained that this update is just one of the many steps the company is taking to help users feel more in charge of their online presence.
However, there is one exception to the removal policy. If a user is actively commercializing their explicit images, Google will not grant the request for removal. Previously, Google did allow individuals to request the removal of explicit images that were shared without their consent, but this new policy expands that capability to include personal, sexually explicit content regardless of the context in which it was shared.
Alongside the explicit content removal policy, Google introduced a new dashboard to track instances of personal contact information appearing in search results. The dashboard will make it easier for users to monitor and request the removal of information about themselves from Google’s search results.
Users will receive alerts when new search results contain their contact information, and the feature will be initially available in English for users in the United States, with plans to expand to more locations and languages in the future. Additionally, Google has taken further steps to protect users from inadvertently encountering explicit imagery in search results.
The company announced that it will automatically blur explicit images in search results for all users worldwide. This initiative was first mentioned in February during Safer Internet Day and aligns with Google’s commitment to safeguarding families from exposure to adult, graphic, or violent content.
Danny Sullivan emphasized that the blurring feature aligns with Google’s principles of not surprising or shocking users with unexpected content. By taking proactive steps to protect users from explicit imagery, Google aims to foster a safer and more secure search environment. It’s worth noting that Google has been progressively expanding the types of information users can request to be removed from search results over the past few years.
For instance, users have long had the ability to request the removal of search links containing sensitive personal information, such as credit card numbers or government-issued IDs, to prevent malicious practices like doxxing. However, it’s essential to understand that Google has specific policy requirements for removal requests.
Information categorized as professional rather than personal, or content found on government or educational webpages, may not be eligible for removal. Additionally, it’s essential to recognize that Google removes information solely from its search results and not from the original source. In conclusion, Google’s recent updates are a significant step toward empowering users to manage their online presence more effectively.
By offering the option to remove personal, sexually explicit content and providing tools to track and control personal contact information, Google is striving to create a safer and more personalized search experience for users around the world. As the company continues to refine these features and expand their availability, users can better protect their privacy and online reputation while enjoying a more tailored search experience.
