What is the right to delisting?

Right to delisting: definition

The right to delisting, also called the (digital) right to be forgotten, exists following a decision of the Court of Justice of the European Union. It lets Europeans ask for the removal of search-engine results that are outdated, excessive, or inappropriate and that harm their e-reputation.

Who can request delisting?

Since the ruling of 13 May 2014, the CJEU (Court of Justice of the European Union) has said that internet users, Europeans only, who are not public figures have the right to ask that search results be removed from search-engine indexes, so they can better control their e-reputation.

How do you send a delisting request?

First, you need to find the request form, or the search engine’s contact details if it does not provide a form.

Second, you send the search engine a request to delist content that concerns you. You will of course need to attach a copy of a document proving you are the person concerned, to avoid identity theft.

What can you do if the search engine refuses to delist?

After a search engine refuses a delisting request, people who live in France can refer the matter to CNIL (or the equivalent authority in their country of residence).

If you get no reply, or a reply that is not satisfactory, you can file a complaint with CNIL by mail or online.