[Exclusive] Google exposed personal data of victims seeking removal of image-based sex abuse material

[Exclusive] Google exposed personal data of victims seeking removal of image-based sex abuse material

“A video of me having sex was illegally leaked, and I’m being relentlessly ridiculed and victimized online. Please remove the search terms that identify me, investigate this matter thoroughly, and help me put an end to this abuse.”

“I’m struggling to go about my daily life because of the severe emotional distress and sexual humiliation I’m experiencing. I’m asking you to immediately remove the relevant URL, block access to it in the country, and prevent it from appearing in search results.”

These are examples of takedown requests sent directly to Google by Korean victims of illegal filming, also known as image-based sexual abuse. The victims made these desperate requests as the web portal spread personal information related to illegally obtained footage, even generating related search terms.

This is because Google has the ability to remove information related to digital sex crimes from its search results. Yet in some cases, the search engine has instead compounded the harm.

The Hankyoreh has confirmed that, without victims’ consent, Google forwarded their removal requests — including sensitive information exactly as submitted — to an affiliated research institute, resulting in the requests being made publicly accessible. In addition to those sent by individuals, removal requests from public agencies were also indiscriminately made public.

Seoul has demanded that Google delete the text of the removal requests and lodged a strong protest, subsequently launching an investigation into the matter.

submitted by /u/icaruswalks
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