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Did you know Google has a feature where one can remove images of minors from their search results?
Images of anyone below the age of 18 can be removed from Google's search results at the request of the individual, who must be under 18 at the time of the request, or their parent or guardian.
Exceptions are, however, made in cases of compelling public interest or newsworthiness.
If the request is successful, the images won't appear in the 'Images' tab or as thumbnails in any feature in Google Search.
While this can prevent an image from appearing in Google's search results, they cannot remove it from websites that host it, and one would have to contact the site's webmaster and ask them to remove the content.
ALSO SEE | FREE WEBINAR: How to raise digitally safe online schoolers
How do I send a removal request?
For the removal of the image to be considered, the following requirements must be met:
- The removal requestor must submit the Image URL (please note that this is not the same as the website URL).
- The image must include an identifiable individual who is currently under the age of 18.
- The image will also be removed in the tragic situation of a child who has died before reaching the age of 18.
- The removal requestor must either be the individual themselves, a legal guardian for the individual, or an authorized representative of either.
Any authorized representative will need to explain how they have the authority to act on your behalf.
Once the removal request has been submitted, the removal requestor can expect an email confirmation and thereafter, the request will be reviewed, more information will be gathered if need be, and finally, the requestor will be notified of any action taken.
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