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.

Germany legal framework

Strafgesetzbuch § 201a (Verletzung des höchstpersönlichen Lebensbereichs durch Bildaufnahmen). Up to 2 years imprisonment or fine. Up to 5 years where the image is made accessible to a third party.

The civil erasure right under GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Bundesdatenschutzgesetz is enforceable against Google regardless of where Google processes the data, where the data subject is in Germany.

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 § 201a StGB criminal complaint

    Report to local police or national cybercrime unit. Hilfetelefon Gewalt gegen Frauen can assist.

  3. 3

    Submit GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Bundesdatenschutzgesetz 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. BfDI 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 Germany resident?

Yes. GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Bundesdatenschutzgesetz gives any data subject in Germany 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 Germany?

Strafgesetzbuch § 201a (Verletzung des höchstpersönlichen Lebensbereichs durch Bildaufnahmen). Up to 2 years imprisonment or fine. Up to 5 years where the image is made accessible to a third party.

How does Google verify a Germany 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. BfDI can be petitioned if Google fails to act within the statutory window.

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.

Related guides