Google has revealed in its blog that a new tool is available that makes removing images from search results easier.
Danny Sullivan, Google’s public liaison for search, says that the company acknowledges unique challenges kids and teens face online – their picture showing up unexpectedly on the internet being one of the greatest.
The New Tool Will Help Kids and Teens Have More Control Over Their Digital Footprint
To remove images, the users have to submit image URLs featuring an “identifiable individual” younger than 18. The company also advises adding search terms that were used to pull up the images.
Google states that the request must be made by the person in the photos, parent, or legal guardian. The tool also enables the removal of pictures of persons who died before reaching 18.
Google’s Tool Removes Only The Photos From Search Results, Not Individual Websites
The procedure starts by submitting a request that contains image URLs, search query information, and search results to Google. The company says that the users will receive a confirmation mail.
After reviewing the request, Google may request further information and will notify the users about the decision.
This tool will undoubtedly improve kids’ online safety, but the company underlines that it can only remove photos from search results but not individual websites. If they want to remove images from certain websites, they will have to contact their webmasters.
Parents who are concerned about what their children are doing online should consider installing parental control software.
