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6 Jul, 2022

Information Security Brief - July 2022

Keeping your private information private

Limit what's available in Google searches

92% of all Internet searches are hosted by Google. For many years the company has provided us with the ability to request the removal of sensitive, personally identifiable information (PII).

Recently, Google expanded the options, and we're now able to request removal of even more types of data when it is showing in search results. Important additions include phone number, email address, physical address, and login credentials. 

Following is a list of PII that you can request be removed from Google search results:

  • Confidential government IDs, such as Social Security Numbers
  • Bank account numbers
  • Credit card numbers
  • Images of handwritten signatures
  • Images of ID docs
  • Highly personal, restricted, and official records, such as medical records
  • Physical addresses
  • Phone numbers
  • Email addresses
  • Confidential login credentials

Learn more and request to remove select information from Google searches here.

Updating PII settings available in Google searches is a good step to increased privacy, but it does not remove it from the Internet. If you discover personal information online, you should also contact the host site directly and request removal.

The more you know about the privacy tools available, the more you can do to actively protect your information and help customers do the same.

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Disclaimer

This publication attempts to provide timely and accurate information concerning the subjects discussed. It is furnished with the understanding that it does not provide legal or other professional services. If legal or other expert assistance is required, the services of a qualified professional should be obtained.

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