Google to allow users to remove personal information

Google is taking another step to remove users’ private information from internet searches.

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The tech giant has started to allow users to request that their phone numbers, physical addresses and email addresses be removed from search results, CBS News reported.

The “Today” show reported that people under the age of 18, or their parent or guardian, can request that their images be removed from Google search results.

Previously Google allowed Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, signatures and medical records removed.

The additional privacy push will protect users from “unwanted direct contact or even personal harm,” Google said in a blog post announcing the new initiative.

The Federal Trade Commission said that consumers lost $5.8 billion in scams last year, 70% more than in 2020.

Most of the scams come online, but also through telephone solicitations and identity theft, CBS News reported.

So how can you start the process to have your information removed from search results?

First, visit Google’s page that is set up for personal information removal. Then follow the instructions, making selections that apply to your request.

PCMag reported that you can submit up to 1,000 URLs on the form.

Once you are done with the form and submit it, you’ll get an automated email confirming that the request was made.

You may get follow-up emails for additional information. Once everything is processed you’ll get notified if any action is taken, “Today” reported.

You could be denied your request.

Google said the company will “evaluate all content on the web page” to make sure it is not “limiting the availability of other information that is broadly useful, for instance in news articles.”

Another reason the information won’t be removed is if it is a matter of public record on government or official sources, “Today” reported.

Keep in mind that the information will still be on the hosting website’s servers, it just won’t come up in Google search if the request is granted, PCMag reported.

The publication suggests reaching out to specific webpages to purge the information first.

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