Online users look for help to deleting their information from the Internet

Research by Igniyte finds that a large number of people are seeking help to protect themselves and their family’s personal information online.

The data – based on the enquiries Igniyte received in 2014-15 – shows that 40% of overall enquiries about online reputation are from ordinary people wanting to delete information from the Internet.

The findings came at a similar time to the release of the iRights initiative, a campaign for young people to have the right to delete their information from the Internet.

Protecting young people online – delete information from the Internet

Of those who enquired about the removal of personal information, 21% did so on behalf of young family members who either wanted advice or were worried about online behaviour. Igniyte’s guide to managing your teenager’s personal information online has more information on the pitfalls for young people online. It suggests advice on the best ways to ensure your child is safe and educated online.

With the awareness of protecting personal information online growing, Igniyte’s Simon Wadsworth comments on the significance of the iRights campaign and Igniyte’s findings: “Concern regarding content online is growing in force and with regard to young people, the iRights campaign is very much needed to protect them.

“Young people’s digital literacy often surpasses their parents, teachers or guardians, resulting in content online without advice on what should and should not be shared.

“For the iRights campaign to be a success, it needs to be backed by the main search engines and social platforms who tend to house the content that young people post online. Further legislation is required to protect them and practical steps are taken to ensure children and adults are educated in how things are published, who can see them and what can be removed.”

Right To Be Forgotten

The research finds that 21% of people want help challenging negative press content online. Almost half of those (40%) were victims of incorrect, defamatory or libellous information, meaning their online reputation is being damaged unfairly.

Similarly, 16% want help with ‘Right To Be Forgotten’ applications – 34% of those were victims, or family of the victims, of a crime. This is where the Google Spain ruling (Right To Be Forgotten) is a useful tool in Google – despite mixed public opinions. A Google data leak also found that most requests are from people just wanting to protect their personal information and privacy.

20% of people who got in touch for help challenging negative online content and negative online press articles had ‘spent’ convictions.

Igniyte’s services

Of the people who enquired, 20% were looking for ongoing reputation management services – proof that it is a real problem in today’s digital age and people want help to delete information from the Internet.

Igniyte works with global clients to monitor, identify and manage mentions and sentiment online. We use PR and communications techniques, also creating and optimising digital content. Where necessary, we challenge online content legally where it is defamatory, outdated or contains personal information.

If you want help or advice on how to protect yourself or your company online, Igniyte’s services could be useful. To find out more, please contact Simon Wadsworth on tel: +44 (0) 203 542 8686 or email simon@igniyte.com in confidence.