Google Now Allows Photo Removal Requests for Minors

Google Introduces Image Removal Requests for Minors

Google is now enabling children, teenagers, and their parents to submit requests for the removal of pictures from its image search results.

New Privacy Measures

This new privacy feature represents one of several updates the company unveiled in August. These changes are designed to proactively enhance protections for users under the age of 18.

Further planned safeguards from Google include setting video uploads to private by default. Additionally, the company intends to disable and eliminate certain “overly commercial” content on YouTube Kids, such as unboxing videos.

How to Request Image Removal

Individuals under 18, or their legal parent or guardian, can initiate a removal request by completing a designated form.

The form requires specifying a request to remove “Imagery of an individual currently under the age of 18.” Relevant personal information, image URLs, and search queries that display the images must also be provided.

Empowering Young Users

“We believe this change will help give young people more control over their digital footprint and where their images can be found on Search,” Google stated in a recent blog post.

The company confirms that all requests will be reviewed. Additional verification may be required in certain cases.

Users will receive a notification once images are removed, ensuring transparency throughout the process.

Global Availability and Legal Context

Currently, many countries, including the U.S., lack a comprehensive national legal framework addressing the “right to be forgotten” online.

The EU’s GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is considered a leading standard for privacy regulation. It grants individuals the right to request the removal of certain online identifying information, including photographs.

GDPR vs. Google’s New Tool

While Google’s new request tool is globally accessible, it doesn't fully align with the requirements of GDPR.

Google’s tool specifically addresses images of individuals under 18. GDPR extends this right by requiring companies to remove images of individuals who were minors at the time of upload, even upon their request as adults.

Increased Regulatory Scrutiny

Google announced these changes alongside a broader wave of updates as the tech industry faces growing regulatory oversight, particularly in the U.S.

Recently, YouTube testified before the Senate Commerce Committee regarding its efforts to protect young and vulnerable users on its platform. The company highlighted the newly implemented changes during this testimony.