Google's new tool helps you remove non-consensual explicit images from Search

Source: Engadget

Overview

The internet is rife with violations of privacy, including non‑consensual explicit images. Google has introduced a new tool that lets users request the removal of such media from Search results. While it doesn’t prevent the images from being posted, it provides a way to delete them from Google Search.

How to Use the Removal Tool

1. Locate the image in Google Search results.
2. Click the three dots that appear on the image.
3. Choose “Remove result.”
4. Select the appropriate reason:
   • It shows a sexual image of me (you’ll be asked whether it’s a real image or a deepfake)
   • The picture shows a person under 18
   • It contains my personal information

You can also submit multiple photos at once.

Support and Safeguards

• After submitting a request, Google displays links to emotional and legal support organizations immediately.
• Users can opt‑in to safeguards that filter out similar results in Search. Note that unreported images may still be visible to other users.

“Results About You” Hub

• The hub now allows you to track removal requests for personal contact information, government ID numbers, social security numbers, driver’s licenses, and passport details.
• Google will notify you if any of this information appears in Search results and provide steps for removal.

Rollout

• The feature is expected to be available in most countries in the coming days, with updates rolling out to US users soon.
• This launch coincides with the shutdown of Google’s dark web reports, which previously alerted users to personal data exposure from data breaches but did not offer remediation steps.

Source

This article originally appeared on Engadget: