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.

South Korea legal framework

Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes article 14 (illegal filming) and 14-2 (deepfake intimate images, added 2020). Filming: up to 7 years imprisonment or fine up to KRW 50 million. Distribution for profit: up to 10 years. Deepfake intimate images: up to 5 years.

The civil erasure right under PIPA right to delete plus Information and Communications Network Act takedown procedures is enforceable against Google regardless of where Google processes the data, where the data subject is in South Korea.

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 Sexual Violence Punishment Act article 14 and 14-2 criminal complaint

    Report to local police or national cybercrime unit. Digital Sex Crime Victim Support Center can assist.

  3. 3

    Submit PIPA right to delete plus Information and Communications Network Act takedown procedures 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. PIPC 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 South Korea resident?

Yes. PIPA right to delete plus Information and Communications Network Act takedown procedures gives any data subject in South Korea 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 South Korea?

Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes article 14 (illegal filming) and 14-2 (deepfake intimate images, added 2020). Filming: up to 7 years imprisonment or fine up to KRW 50 million. Distribution for profit: up to 10 years. Deepfake intimate images: up to 5 years.

How does Google verify a South Korea 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. PIPC can be petitioned if Google fails to act within the statutory window.

Can the South Korea regulator force Google to remove content?

The Digital Sex Crime Victim Support Center provides government funded removal assistance and operates a 24 hour intake. KCSC can order ICN providers to take down material.

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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