Amid tighter regulations in India targeting AI-generated content and deepfakes — such as compulsory labelling and quicker takedown requirements — Google has introduced new Search features designed to help users remove explicit images and sensitive personal details more easily. The move comes as global regulators place growing pressure on technology companies to strengthen protections against online abuse and manipulated media. Google says the update is intended to give individuals, particularly victims of harmful content, greater control over what appears about them in Search results.
In a blog post, Google explained a simplified removal mechanism for explicit images:
A major improvement is the ability to flag multiple images through a single submission. Previously, users were required to file separate requests for each link. The updated process allows several results to be selected and reported together, reducing effort and speeding up the workflow.
After submitting a request, individuals can monitor its status through Google’s “Results about you” dashboard, which provides updates and notifications on review progress.
Google has also added preventative measures. Once a removal request is approved, users may activate a setting that helps block similar explicit material from reappearing in future searches involving their name. This safeguard is especially relevant in cases of AI-generated deepfakes, where altered content can re-emerge in varied versions.
Beyond explicit imagery, Google is broadening its removal policies to include additional categories of personal data. Users can now ask for Search results containing items such as government identification numbers, home addresses, or phone numbers to be taken down. The system can further alert users if new instances of such sensitive information surface online.
Google noted, however, that these actions affect only its Search listings. The source material remains on the original website unless the hosting platform independently deletes it.
The enhanced Search safety tools are being introduced in phases across several countries, including India.
