Google has announced major changes to its "Results About You" tool in an effort to improve user control over their personal information and privacy.
The tool, which launched in May 2022, allows users to manage the personal information that shows in Google Search results.
Users can now receive instant alerts from Google about new instances of their personal information appearing on the search engine, making it easier than ever to take control of their online presence.
New Privacy Tools for Google Users
Android Authority notes that the most exciting addition to the "Results About You" tool is the opt-in warning system.
Previously, users needed to actively search for their personal information on Google and manually request its removal. This process could be time-consuming and leave users unaware of new appearances of their private details.
With the warning system, Google proactively alerts users whenever fresh instances of their personal information emerge on the search engine.
This means users can promptly identify and address privacy concerns, saving time and effort in the process.
Dashboard for User Reports
To complement the warning system, Google is rolling out a new dashboard that aggregates all the user's reports. This dashboard will serve as a central hub for monitoring and managing personal contact information visible on Google Search.
By streamlining access to these reports, users can conveniently request the removal of unwanted search results directly from the tool.
The new dashboard and warning system were initially available only in English for users in the United States. However, Google has assured users that it intends to expand these features to more countries and languages in the near future.
What Is SafeSearch Blurring?
Additionally, Google is taking a strong stance on explicit imagery with two new Search features. First, it introduces "SafeSearch blurring," a tool designed to automatically blur explicit and graphic imagery from search results.
While this feature aims to protect users from encountering adult content inadvertently, users retain the flexibility to turn it off if desired. The global rollout of SafeSearch blurring is scheduled for this month, ensuring users worldwide can benefit from this added layer of protection.
Removing Explicit Images
Secondly, Google is updating its policies on personal explicit images. Previously, users could request the removal of non-consensual explicit images from Search.
Now, Google is extending this protection to enable users to remove their personal explicit images that they no longer wish to be visible in Search. For example, suppose users had previously uploaded explicit content to a website and later removed it.
In that case, they can now request its removal from Google Search if it continues to appear elsewhere without their approval. This policy, however, does not apply to content that users are currently commercializing.
To facilitate the process of content removal requests, Google has also revamped and simplified the submission forms.
Better Parental Controls
In addition to these changes, Google is making parental controls more accessible. Users can now type in relevant queries like "google parental controls" or "google family link" in the Search bar, and a box with information on managing parental controls will appear.
This enhancement aims to assist parents, guardians, and educators create a safer online environment for young users.
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