Online reputation repair · Last reviewed 12 October 2026

Online reputation repair you can do yourself

Most of what people call “reputation repair” is asking the right person for the right thing, clearly and politely, then following up. You can do that yourself. Here’s how.

The short version

Take one link at a time. The site that runs a page decides what’s on it, and Google decides what shows in search, so ask the site first and then ask Google to catch up. Start by saving the link and a dated screenshot.

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Start with what people actually see

Search your name the way someone else would: full name, common spellings, your suburb or city, your job and your business. Note the first page of results, images and news. Save links and dated screenshots.

Work out who decides each result

The website owner decides what’s on a page. A platform decides about accounts, posts and reviews. Google decides what shows in search, and mostly follows what’s on the page. Ask the person who decides.

Ask for something specific

An update, a correction, removing your name, a “noindex” tag, or taking a page down. Specific, reasonable requests with evidence get further than general complaints.

Add accurate information of your own

A clear profile or work page gives people searching for you something current to find. Keep it true and modest. Fake reviews or made-up pages break platform rules and can make things worse.

Keep a record and follow up

Write down what you sent, when and to whom. If there’s no reply in two weeks, follow up once. A “no” is still an answer, and it tells you what to try next.

Questions

What is online reputation repair?

Dealing with what shows up when people search your name: asking for outdated or wrong information to be updated or removed, reporting things that break platform rules, and making sure accurate, current information about you is easy to find.

How long does it take?

Usually about 30 minutes of your time per request. Replies often take two to six weeks. Changes in Google can take longer after the page itself changes.

Can anyone guarantee a result?

No. Publishers, platforms and Google make their own decisions. Be wary of anyone who promises a removal or a ranking for money.

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?

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The 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.

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