On Google, a shortcut arrives to delete links exposing your data


Google facilitates a little more its tools around the right to be forgotten. An option arrives in its mobile application, to report a problematic link, directly in the search results.

Google is developing its tools dedicated to the right to be forgotten. The American company is currently deploying a new option in its search engine, which will appear directly in the results of a query. This option will serve as a shortcut: it will be offered next to each link, in order to notify Google if this or that page contains your personal data.

Since this spring, we have known Google’s project to facilitate the de-indexing of web pages that expose contact information – such as telephone number, email or postal address. In its presentation, the company listed the data giving the right to delist a link. There were images of signatures, bank information or official documents.

A shortcut in Google results

What the option looks like, in the mobile app. Note the ellipsis. // Source: Google

The arrival of this option, mentioned by the 9to5 Google site in its edition of September 20, 2022, is gradual. It appears in the mobile application of the Mountain View firm and takes the form of vertical ellipsis visible next to each URL, after a search. By clicking on it, you have access to an option to request the removal of a link.

Items eligible for deletion are:

  • Confidential official identification numbers;
  • Bank account numbers;
  • Credit card numbers;
  • Images of handwritten signatures;
  • Images of IDs;
  • Sensitive and restricted official documents, such as medical records;
  • Personal contact details (physical addresses, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses);
  • Confidential login credentials.

It should be noted that each request does not necessarily result in the removal of the link from Google’s search results. The company must assess your request against what is on the page, in order to avoid possible abuse. There may be information in the public interest — such as knowing about a conviction from a third party. Arbitration is very delicate.

If Google responds favorably to a request, it “only” removes this link from Google search. The page can still be found with another search engine or visited via an internal link or by typing the address into their web browser. However, given Google’s weight in search, this removal significantly reduces exposure.

To obtain the withdrawal of information on a site, it is advisable to contact the owner of the site directly, possibly the National Commission for Computing and Liberties (Cnil) or the host, if ever you do not unable to contact him. Google also still offers its right to be forgotten request form, in addition to this new option.



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