Internet users can now ask Google to remove their personal data from search results

This data includes phone numbers, email addresses, and some other personally identifiable information. All of which may be omitted from Google Search results.

In fact, this option is part of a new Google privacy policy that aims to limit the activities of malicious organizations that hunt for personal information as well as sensitive data for unauthorized gain. Some typical abuses include identity theft, unauthorized tracking, and even financial fraud. Previously, internet users could also ask Google to remove personal data from search results, but the data that could be removed was limited to ID numbers, banking information, signature photos and medical records. In addition, the removal process is also relatively cumbersome.

The current measure will widen the extent to which personal data can be removed, and also concerns privacy issues in the search results space. In addition to physical addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers, users can also proactively request access to login information blocked to enhance protection against hackers. Users can visit Google's support page to start registering URLs containing personal information that will be restricted from showing up in search results. The number of websites for each user can be up to 1,000 different websites.

The removal process will require Google's supervision before it can respond to user requests. If the request is approved, Google will remove the URL containing sensitive personal information from all search results.

In a related statement, Google's Global Policy Lead for Search, Michelle Chang, emphasized the need for a flexible policy in terms of privacy protection and protection. user's password. This is consistent with the general policy of Google's operating guidelines.

David Pac

Update 02 May 2022