How Can I Write a Letter to Google to Exercise My Right to Be Forgotten in the UK?

Question from B-Legal, How Can I Write a Letter to Google to Exercise My Right to Be Forgotten in the UK?

Answer from AI:

In the UK, the right to be forgotten, also known as the right to erasure, is a legal principle that allows individuals to request the deletion of their personal data. This right is enshrined in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which is enforced by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in the UK.

Understanding the Right to Be Forgotten

The right to be forgotten is not absolute and only applies in certain circumstances. For example, you can request Google to remove specific results about you that appear in a search under your name if the information is inaccurate, inadequate, irrelevant, or excessive. However, Google may refuse your request if they believe the public interest in accessing the information outweighs your right to privacy.

Steps to Write a Letter to Google

1. Identify Yourself: Start the letter by clearly identifying yourself. Include your full name, contact information, and any other relevant details.
2. Specify Your Request: Clearly state that you are requesting the removal of specific search results under the GDPR’s right to be forgotten. Provide details of the specific URLs you want to be removed and explain why you believe they should be removed.
3. Provide Evidence: If possible, provide evidence to support your claim. This could include screenshots of the search results or copies of the inaccurate or outdated information.
4. Request Confirmation: Ask Google to confirm in writing that they have received your request and that they are taking steps to remove the information.

Where to Send Your Letter

You can send your letter to Google’s legal department at their UK address. Alternatively, Google provides an online form for submitting right to be forgotten requests, which may be a quicker and more efficient method.

Seeking Legal Advice

If Google refuses your request, or if you are unsure about any aspect of the process, you may wish to seek legal advice. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process.

Remember, this information is a general guide and not legal advice. For personalized advice, always consult with a legal professional.

For more information on the right to be forgotten, you can visit the ICO’s guide on the right to erasure. To submit a request to Google, you can use their online form.