Google Enhances Personal Information Protection Features
Google has introduced updates to several of its tools, including the feature «Your Personal Information in Search» and the ability to remove unwanted images from its search engine.
This was reported by The Tech Crunch.
The «Your Personal Information in Search» feature now allows users to remove search results that include their contact details such as phone numbers or email addresses. It has also expanded to allow the removal of information like driver’s license numbers, passport details, or social security numbers.
Users can access this tool through the Google app by clicking on their profile picture and selecting the relevant option. New users must click «Get Started» and enter their contact information to be tracked. They will then be prompted to add their identification numbers. Existing users can simply add their IDs and choose which ones they want to monitor.
Once the information is confirmed, Google will automatically check search results and notify users if any results containing their personal information are found. Google mentions that removing this information from search results does not eliminate it from the Internet entirely, but helps improve data privacy.
This update will first roll out in the United States, with plans to expand to other regions in the future.
Additionally, Google has simplified the process for removing unwanted explicit images from its search results. Users now only need to click on the three dots next to an image, select «Remove Result», and confirm that the image is explicit. There is no longer a need to report images one by one, as multiple images can now be selected at once. Users can also track the status of their requests in the «Your Personal Information in Search» section.