data protection
Google lets users delete sexually explicit photos
A lettering with the Google logo is stuck to a pane of glass in the Koelnmesse press center. photo
© Rolf Vennenbernd/dpa
Private photos or even sexually explicit images in Google’s search results – so far it has been quite difficult for users to take action against them. Now Google offers several delete functions.
The group pointed out that deleting them from Google search would not completely eliminate the unwanted images. In this way, they could continue to be found in other search engines or be visible on the Internet. The deletion request can be made via a web form in the Google support area.
Automatically blurred
Google also announced that it would enable by default a feature of SafeSearch that automatically blurs offensive photos in Google search results. Google wants to protect children from pornography and violence in particular, but also protect adults from surprises. This applies to content that is harmful to young people or violent content such as photos of accident victims or acts of war. If you do not want this protection, you can deactivate it at any time. However, parents or administrators of school networks can prevent children and young people from switching off this protective measure.
The third privacy feature that Google rolled out on Thursday aims to give it more control over its own data as it appears anywhere on the web. A year ago, Google introduced the “Search Results About You” tool, which allows people to request the removal of search results that contain their own personal phone number, home address or email address. In the future, you can be actively notified when your personal contact information reappears in the Google search. The tool is initially available in the US in English. Google is working on offering it in other languages and regions soon.