How long does Google take to approve removal requests?
When you submit a removal request, Google will send a confirmation email and inform you when the URL is no longer visible in Search. In many cases, this happens within a few minutes to a few days.
Also: The best secure browsers for privacy in 2025: Expert tested
When I tried Google’s removal tool for myself, I found the process simple. I searched for my name, found a site that listed my information, and submitted a removal request. My request was approved four minutes later.
“Within a few hours,” Google’s follow-up email explained, “the URL for this result will no longer be visible”.
Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNET
Will Google pull your search result offline?
No. The original page will remain online. The link will just no longer appear in Search results, making it harder for others to find.
Also: Best data removal services: Delete yourself from the internet
Beyond Google, some directory sites and data brokers offer their own removal processes. It’s worth submitting requests at the source to ensure your data stays private.
How to stay notified of new listings
Google makes it easy for you to sign up for proactive monitoring. That means you can receive alerts when new instances of your personal information are indexed by Google. Just visit the Results about you hub, sign in with your Google Account, add your name and contact information, and Google will turn on monitoring and send you notices when your data shows up online.
Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNET
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