Right to be forgotten: Removal of intimate content on the Internet

Privacy on the internet is a fundamental right, and in cases where intimate content has been published without consent, the right to be forgotten becomes a key tool for protecting a person’s reputation and dignity. In this article, we will explain what this right entails, how it can be exercised, and the steps to follow to request the removal of intimate content from the web.

What is the right to be forgotten?

The right to be forgotten allows individuals to request the removal of personal information from search engine results or digital platforms when its dissemination affects their privacy or reputation. It was first recognized by the Court of Justice of the European Union in 2014 and is regulated under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

When it comes to intimate content published without consent, this right is especially important, as its dissemination can cause irreparable harm to the victim’s personal and professional life.

When can the right to be forgotten be exercised?

There are various situations in which the right to be forgotten can be invoked to remove content from the internet, including:

• The publication of intimate images or videos without consent.
• The dissemination of sensitive personal data without authorization.
• Information that has lost relevance and negatively impacts a person’s reputation.
• Content that constitutes harassment or defamation.

It is important to note that the removal of information is not always guaranteed automatically. Each request must be evaluated by search engine administrators or the platforms hosting the content.

How to request the removal of intimate content?

To exercise the right to be forgotten and request the removal of intimate content from the internet, follow these steps:

1. Identify the source of the content

Before submitting a removal request, it is essential to determine where the content is hosted:

• Websites or forums.
• Social media platforms.
• Search engines like Google.
• Adult content platforms.

2. Contact the website administrator

As a first step, it is advisable to contact the administrator of the website or social media platform where the content was published. Most platforms have mechanisms for reporting unauthorized posts.

3. Request removal from search engines

If the content cannot be removed from the source, the next step is to request its removal from search engines like Google. Google provides a content removal form where individuals can submit proof of the harm caused.

4. Report the content on social media

Major social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and TikTok offer options for reporting content that violates privacy. In most cases, the platform will review the complaint and remove the content if it is found to be in violation.

5. Contact data protection authorities

If previous requests do not lead to the removal of the content, individuals can file a complaint with data protection agencies such as the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) or its equivalent in other EU countries. These institutions can intervene and demand the removal of the content.

6. Take legal action

In serious cases, such as the dissemination of intimate content without consent (commonly known as “revenge porn”), consulting a lawyer specializing in digital law is advisable. Legal action can be taken against those responsible.

Tips to protect your privacy online

Preventing the unauthorized distribution of intimate content is key to protecting online privacy. Some preventive measures include:

• Properly configuring privacy settings on social media to control who can view posts.
• Avoiding the sharing of sensitive content via digital means, especially with individuals who are not fully trusted.
• Regularly monitoring personal information online using search tools and Google alerts.
• Using professional reputation management services to remove or minimize the impact of unwanted content.

Conclusion

The right to be forgotten is a powerful legal tool for removing intimate content from the internet and protecting digital reputation. Although the process can be complex, there are various ways to request the removal of unwanted information, from contacting website administrators to seeking legal or regulatory intervention.

If you need professional assistance in managing the removal of intimate content from the internet, RepScan can help you protect your privacy and regain control over your digital information.