Key Highlights:
- The rollout begins in the U.S., with more regions planned.
- Google now allows users to remove passport, driver’s license, and Social Security numbers from Search.
- The update expands the existing “Results about you” tool.
- Users can request removal of multiple explicit images in one form.
Google has expanded its privacy tools to help users remove more sensitive personal data from Search results. The update, announced on Safer Internet Day, strengthens how individuals can protect their identity online. It matters because exposed ID details can lead to fraud, harassment, and identity theft.
The company enhanced its existing “Results about you” feature and streamlined the removal of non-consensual explicit images.
What Is Google’s ‘Results About You’ Tool?
The “Results about you” tool helps users monitor and remove personal contact information from Search.
Previously, it covered phone numbers, home addresses, and email addresses. Now, Google has expanded it to include government-issued identification numbers. Users can request removal of results that display a driver’s license, passport number, or Social Security number.
This marks a significant expansion in personal data protection within Google Search.
How Can Users Remove Sensitive Information?
Users can access the feature inside the Google app.
Tap your Google account photo.
Select “Results about you.”
First-time users must tap “Get started.”
Add contact details you want monitored.
Then add government ID numbers.
Existing users can update monitored information anytime.
Once details are confirmed, Google automatically scans Search results. If matching content appears, users receive alerts. They can then submit a removal request.
Google clarifies that removing content from Search does not erase it from the web. However, it limits visibility and reduces exposure risk.
The update is rolling out in the United States first. Additional regions will follow.
How Is Google Handling Non-Consensual Explicit Images?
Google also simplified the removal of non-consensual explicit images.
Users can now click the three dots next to an image. Then select “Remove result.” After that, tap “It shows a sexual image of me.”
Previously, users had to report images individually. Now, they can select multiple images and submit them through one form. The request status appears inside the “Results about you” hub.
Google added an optional safeguard. Users can opt in to proactively filter similar explicit results in the future.
Why This Update Matters for Online Privacy
Search engines shape digital visibility. When sensitive ID numbers or explicit content appear in search results, the impact can be immediate.
By expanding the “Results about you” tool, Google is tightening control over highly sensitive data exposure. While removal from Search is not full deletion, it reduces discoverability. That directly lowers risk.
As digital footprints grow, privacy tools must evolve. With this update, Google strengthens user control over what appears next to their name in Search.
