Why Google content spreads quickly

Google Search and Google Images are the discovery layer for nearly every NCII case. Removing the underlying content does not always remove the cached version from Google, and reverse image search can surface mirrors.

France legal framework

Code pénal article 226-2-1 (atteinte à l'intimité de la vie privée à caractère sexuel). Up to 2 years imprisonment and €60,000 fine.

The civil erasure right under GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Loi Informatique et Libertés is enforceable against Google regardless of where Google processes the data, where the data subject is in France.

Google removal route

Google accepts NCII removal requests through its dedicated NCII removal form for Search and Images. Approved requests result in URL deindexing from Google Search results within 12 hours typically.

Google's NCII removal form is the most reliable single point of leverage in the open web. Approved removals also propagate to Google's broader index which suppresses discovery across Discover and News surfaces.

Evidence preservation specific to Google

Capture the search query that surfaces the content, the result URL, and any cached or thumbnail versions. Google retains cached snapshots that may persist for weeks after the underlying content is removed.

Five step removal process

  1. 1

    Capture evidence from Google

    Capture the search query that surfaces the content, the result URL, and any cached or thumbnail versions. Google retains cached snapshots that may persist for weeks after the underlying content is removed.

  2. 2

    File Article 226-2-1 Code pénal criminal complaint

    Report to local police or national cybercrime unit. Plateforme PHAROS / 3018 can assist.

  3. 3

    Submit GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Loi Informatique et Libertés erasure request to Google

    Google accepts NCII removal requests through its dedicated NCII removal form for Search and Images. Approved requests result in URL deindexing from Google Search results within 12 hours typically. The request must identify the URLs and cite the legal basis. CNIL accepts complaints for non compliance.

  4. 4

    Run a biometric scan to find every other hosting location

    Content rarely stays on one platform. ScanErase identifies every current location in a single scan including mirrored copies and AI generated variants of the same image.

  5. 5

    Dispatch parallel TAKE IT DOWN Act notice to Google

    Google is a covered platform with a 48 hour federal removal obligation. ScanErase files the notice within 5 minutes of authorisation.

Frequently asked questions

Can Google be required to remove intimate images of a France resident?

Yes. GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Loi Informatique et Libertés gives any data subject in France the right to require erasure. Google operates a dedicated NCII removal portal that processes these requests. Where Google is also subject to US jurisdiction, the TAKE IT DOWN Act adds a 48 hour federal obligation.

What is the criminal exposure of the person who posted to Google from France?

Code pénal article 226-2-1 (atteinte à l'intimité de la vie privée à caractère sexuel). Up to 2 years imprisonment and €60,000 fine.

How does Google verify a France erasure request?

Google accepts NCII removal requests through its dedicated NCII removal form for Search and Images. Approved requests result in URL deindexing from Google Search results within 12 hours typically. CNIL can be petitioned if Google fails to act within the statutory window.

Can the France regulator force Google to remove content?

ARCOM and the Pharos platform receive reports and can refer to hosts for removal. Loi Avia provisions on illegal content removal also apply.

What evidence should I capture from Google?

Capture the search query that surfaces the content, the result URL, and any cached or thumbnail versions. Google retains cached snapshots that may persist for weeks after the underlying content is removed.

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