A website's country of origin does not determine whether it has content that affects US users. If a platform is accessible to US users and has 10 million or more monthly active users, it falls within the scope of relevant exposure guidelines regardless of server location. Many sites that appear to be foreign operations have substantial US user bases.

For truly foreign-only platforms with minimal US presence, GDPR Article 17 (the right to erasure) and other international frameworks may be relevant. ScanErase's findings cover the legal frameworks applicable to each platform's jurisdiction.

Where foreign platforms present challenges, ScanErase identifies potential escalation channels including FTC, Interpol for international referrals, and domain registrar abuse processes. Many domain registrars are US-based and respond to reports regardless of the website's host location.

What to do right now

  1. Run a biometric scan to identify all copiesScanErase locates your images on foreign and domestic platforms simultaneously.
  2. Find your face on platforms under applicable lawsUS law applies to platforms with US users, while European law governs EU-accessible platforms. ScanErase utilizes appropriate frameworks for each platform.
  3. Escalate findings through available channelsOptions include FTC reporting and domain registrar abuse, even for foreign platforms.
  4. Request Google to de-index foreign URLsGoogle will de-index foreign URLs hosting intimate content on request, making them invisible in search results globally.
  5. Report findings to the FBI IC3 for international casesIC3 manages international NCII cases and works with foreign law enforcement agencies.