Like other technology and communications companies, Google regularly receives requests from government agencies around the world to remove content from its services (e.g., alleged defamation, hate speech, impersonation), or provide information about their users. The Google Transparency Report shows the number of requests they receive in six-month blocks. Request for removal of copyrighted materials by private parties are not included. The statistics also don’t show all categories, but primarily cover requests for criminal matters.

These numbers aren’t completely transparent though, because there may be multiple requests that ask for the removal of the same piece of content, or data for the same account. Also, the data doesn’t show whether Google complied with or challenged any request. Requests to remove content also include other Google products like YouTube.

* * * * * * *

Subscribe to RankRaiser.com >>