The short version
Ask the publisher to update the story, then ask Google to catch up. The publisher decides what’s on the page. Google decides what shows in search, and only updates once the page changes. Start by saving the link and a dated screenshot, then get a free plan for your situation.
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Get the steps, letters and official forms for your situation.
Capture the result before contacting anyone
Save the exact URL, page title, visible date, Google title and snippet, screenshots, search phrase and access date. Keep the original files and do not alter evidence.
Identify the narrowest accurate request
Decide whether you are asking for a factual correction, added context, anonymisation, noindex, removal, or a refreshed Google result after the source changed. Do not claim a right or policy that does not fit the facts.
Contact the source through an official channel
Use the publisher’s corrections, privacy or contact process. State who you are, identify the exact page, explain the problem in factual language, provide supporting evidence, and ask for a written response.
Use Google tools only when they fit
Google generally reflects source pages. Outdated-content tools may help after a page is removed or materially changed. Privacy and legal requests have their own rules and Google makes the final decision.
Keep a calm follow-up record
Record the destination, date and confirmation number. If there is no substantive response, send one concise follow-up after a reasonable period. Preserve all replies and avoid threats or repeated messages.
Questions
Can removal be guaranteed?
No. Publishers, platforms and search engines decide, and no one can promise a result. What you can control is a clear request with evidence, sent to the right place, and one polite follow-up.
Can I do this myself?
Yes. The free check gives you the steps, a letter you can edit and the official links for your situation. If you want your letters for one link saved online, with a follow-up and a second letter, there’s an optional US$19 letter pack. Either way, you send everything yourself.
When should I seek independent advice?
Get help first if there are threats, a child is involved, a case is still running, it’s a complex defamation dispute, or your identity has been stolen. The free check puts the right help at the top of your plan.
Fix My Name Online is a self-service tool, not a law firm, and this isn’t legal advice. Publishers, platforms and search engines make their own decisions; no one can promise a result. Need a lawyer?
Want your letters for one link saved online?
Optional · US$19 onceThe free plan has everything you need to act. The letter pack saves a request letter, a follow-up and a second letter for one link, online with your dates and notes. You still send everything yourself.