Google is giving users more control over how their personal information appears in search results, including a new way to request the removal of non-consensual explicit images.
The tech company announced today in a blog post that it’s launching a new and simple tool to directly submit requests to remove images from its search engine. To access the tool, users can click on the three dots on an image result and select “Remove result.” From there, users can choose the option that says “It shows a sexual image of me.” Users can also add additional images to the request.
The requests can then be tracked through Google’s “Results about you” hub, and users will receive email updates on the status of their submissions.
After filing a request, users will see links to organizations that can provide emotional and legal support, if needed.
The tool also allows users to opt in to additional safeguards that will “proactively filter out any additional explicit results that might appear in similar searches.”
“We hope that this new removal process reduces the burden that victims of non-consensual explicit imagery face,” Google said in the blog. “As we expand on our existing protections, we will continue to listen to feedback and work with experts to provide tools that protect people online,” the company said.
The new tool will roll out to most countries in the coming weeks, according to the company.
Additionally, Google also expanded its “Results about you” feature, which already lets users request the removal of personal details like phone numbers and home addresses from search results. Now, users can submit additional sensitive information, such as government ID numbers, for monitoring. Google says these submissions will be handled under its security protocols and advanced encryption.
Once submitted, Google will automatically scan for search results containing that information and notify users when matches appear. Users can then request their removal.
Google noted that these tools remove the personal information from its search results but do not delete the content from the internet itself.
This new capability will roll out in the U.S. over the coming days.
The company announced the updates on Safer Internet Day, an international awareness campaign focused on promoting a safer and better internet.
Google wasn’t the only tech giant using the day to spotlight online safety efforts. Microsoft introduced a Minecraft-based grade school curriculum focused on online safety and cybersecurity. Meanwhile, Roblox announced a new youth guide to its community standards designed to help younger users better understand the platform’s rules.
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