Protecting Your Privacy on Google Search
Understanding the Importance of Privacy
Finding personal information like your home address or phone number in a Google search can be alarming. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to safeguard your privacy.
Google’s Commitment to Privacy
A few years ago, Google introduced new measures to help protect your personal information. Michelle Chang, Google’s global policy lead for search, emphasized the balance between open access to information and the need to empower individuals to protect their sensitive data.
“Open access to information is a key goal of Search, but so is empowering people with the tools they need to protect themselves and keep their sensitive, personally identifiable information private.”
These new procedures are designed to prevent malicious doxing and other types of information leaks.
Steps to Remove Personal Information from Google
Initiating the Removal Process
To start the removal process, you need to submit a request to Google. This involves providing details about where your personal information appears on the web. You will also need to list relevant search terms that bring up the unwanted results in Google Search. After entering the search terms, click the Next button.
Providing Personal Details
Google will then ask for your full name, country of residence, and email address. Note that you can only submit takedown requests for yourself or someone you have permission from. Ensure all the information is accurate before submitting the form.
Confirmation and Review
Once you submit your request, you should receive a confirmation email from Google. The review process duration is not specified, but Google will inform you of any actions taken or if no action is deemed necessary. They promise to provide brief explanations for their decisions.
By following these steps, you can take control of your personal information and enhance your online privacy.
4 Comments
Why would you want to be invisible online anyway?
There’s nothing simple about dealing with Google!
Sylvan: Seriously, it’s about taking control of your own privacy.
Really think a “guide” is gonna un-Google you?