GHOSTYou can ask Google to remove images of your kids
Google will take down images of anyone under 18 from search results when a parent asks. What it covers, what it doesn't, and how to file.
Most parents don't know this: anyone under 18, or their parent or guardian, can ask Google to remove images of them from Google search results. Google grants most of these requests. The exceptions are cases with a strong public interest, like newsworthy events.
What it does and doesn't do
It removes the image from Google's search results, including image search. It doesn't delete the image from the website that posted it. For that, contact the site directly, like a school, a team page or a local news outlet. Most will take a child's photo down when a parent asks.
How to file
- Find the image in Google search and copy both the image link and the page it appears on.
- Open Google's request form for removing images of minors from search.
- Confirm you're the parent or guardian, add the links, and submit.
- Google emails you when it decides. You can follow up from the same thread.
Also worth doing
Google's Results about you tool can alert you when your home address, phone number or email appears in search, and lets you request removal in a couple of taps.
Where Ghost helps
Ghost finds where your kids' photos and names appear on mainstream public sites, files the Google request for you, and drafts the note to the site owner. It's free for every family.