Summary:
Google has updated its privacy tool, “Results About You,” making it easier to find and access. This enhancement allows users to request the removal of personal information from Google Search results more efficiently. The tool was previously hard to locate, but with the latest redesign, it is now directly accessible from the three-dot menu next to any search result.
What This Means for You:
- With the improved accessibility of the “Results About You” tool, you can now remove personal information from Google Search results with just a few clicks.
- To use the tool, search for your name or personal information on Google, click the three-dot menu next to the search result you want removed, and select “Remove result.”
- Google has also introduced enhanced monitoring options, enabling you to set up alerts for when information about you appears on the internet.
- As privacy threats continue to rise, managing your online presence is increasingly important for protecting yourself from scams and identity theft.
Original Post:
While Google has strengthened its privacy and security stance, many users may not have noticed the gradual rollout of new privacy resources. Most notably, the “Results About You” tool has undergone significant improvements, becoming more visible and accessible within Google’s ecosystem.
Key improvements to Google’s privacy tool
Google’s recent updates focus on two main areas: improved accessibility and enhanced monitoring options.
1. Better accessibility
Previously, the removal tool was buried within Google’s interface. Now, you can request removal of personal information directly from the three-dot menu next to any search result.
2) Enhanced monitoring options
With “Results about you,” you can set up alerts to let you know if information about you shows up on the internet. You can choose to have notifications sent to your email or as an alert through the Google app.
Additional considerations
- Review process: Google reviews all removal requests to ensure they meet policy requirements; not all requests are guaranteed approval.
- Availability: As of now, this feature is available in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, Brazil, France, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Mexico, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, and Thailand.
Easy alternative to Google’s tool: Data removal service
While Google’s tool is a powerful starting point, it only affects what appears in Google Search. For broader removal, especially from data broker sites, you might consider investing in a personal data removal service, which contacts data brokers on your behalf to request removal of your personal information.
Check out my top picks for data removal services here.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Google has made it easier and more visible to manage your personal information in search results, with better accessibility and monitoring. However, true removal of your information from the internet may require contacting website owners or using third-party data removal services. As privacy threats like identity theft and scams grow, using these tools is an important step in protecting yourself online.
Extra Information:
Learn more about removing personal information from Google Search.
Find additional privacy settings and controls offered by Google.
People Also Ask About:
- How does Google’s “Results About You” tool work? – Google’s “Results About You” tool allows users to request the removal of personal information from Google Search results and set up alerts for when information about them appears on the internet.
- Is Google’s “Results About You” tool available worldwide? – As of now, this feature is available in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, Brazil, France, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Mexico, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, and Thailand.
- What are data removal services? – Data removal services are third-party companies that contact data brokers on your behalf to request removal of your personal information from their sites.
- Why should I consider using a data removal service? – A data removal service can help you remove your information from data broker sites more efficiently and effectively than attempting to do so manually.
Expert Opinion:
Google’s updates to its privacy tool reflect a broader trend of increased focus on user privacy. As data breaches and online threats continue to rise, it is crucial for individuals to take proactive steps to protect their personal information online. Utilizing tools like Google’s “Results About You” and data removal services can help safeguard users’ privacy in an increasingly digital world.
Key Terms:
- Results About You
- Google Search results
- Personal information removal
- Data removal service
- Third-party data brokers
- Online privacy
- Identity theft
- Scams
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