Everyone has the right to control their digital past. Under the GDPR (Article 17: Right to Erasure), you can request that personal data be removed, both from search engines and from AI/LLM systems such as ChatGPT.
MediaMaze has been assisting individuals since this right was first introduced. We have successfully processed many hundreds of requests, litigated multiple times against parties such as Google, and offer a strategic, results-driven approach that goes far beyond submitting a standard request.
Google, Bing, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Grok, Claude
The ‘Right to Be Forgotten’ is enshrined in Article 17 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), officially the right to erasure. It allows any individual to request the deletion of personal data when it is no longer necessary or is excessive for the purpose for which it was processed.
This right applies to all natural persons within the EU. It is therefore not limited to private individuals but also applies to entrepreneurs, executives and other professionals who may face harmful or outdated publications.
Which parties do we work with?
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Search engines such as Google and Bing, which make personal data publicly available through their search results.
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AI and LLM systems such as ChatGPT, which process and display personal data in generated responses.
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Other data controllers (companies, platforms, websites) that process and disclose personal data.
The Right to Be Forgotten applies within the European Union and is enforceable against all organisations processing the personal data of EU an UK citizens, even if the data controller is based outside the EU or the U.K. (the extraterritorial scope of the GDPR).
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Why submit a removal request?
Your name is often the first thing people type into a search engine. What appears there determines how you are perceived — by employers, business partners, or even within your private circle. Undesirable search results or mentions in AI systems can permanently affect your reputation and professional opportunities. For example:
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Old news articles about a private incident that was resolved years ago but still appear at the top of search results.
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A negative review or blog post that misrepresents your work yet keeps resurfacing during job applications or negotiations.
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Articles about a past business dispute or bankruptcy, even though you have since made a successful new start.
Prevent repetition
Search engines continue to display such information, and AI systems like ChatGPT may repeatedly reproduce incorrect or outdated information, even when the original source is rarely visited.
With a successful Right to Be Forgotten request, you prevent such data from continually resurfacing and regain control over how you are seen online.
Our Expertise in Right to Be Forgotten Requests
MediaMaze is one of the most experienced companies in the in this field. Since the inception of this right, we have:
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Processed many hundreds of requests across a wide range of cases.
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Successfully litigated against Google and other parties (see rechtspraak.nl).
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Developed a strategic methodology: we know the optimal sequence and arguments that yield the highest success rates.
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Achieved a proven success rate above 95% by carefully selecting the cases we take on.
How we work
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1. Assessment & Risk Analysis
We not only identify the concrete results or AI mentions but also analyse the wider online context: what other information might reduce the likelihood of success? Sometimes we advise adjusting certain online information first before submitting a request. This increases the chance of success and prevents unnecessary rejections.2. Smart Strategy
We determine the best order in which to submit requests (for instance, starting with specific URLs within a broader plan) and ensure that our arguments precisely align with the recipient’s assessment criteria.3. Legal Foundation
Our requests are thoroughly substantiated with references to the GDPR and relevant case law. This significantly improves the likelihood that search engines and LLMs will comply.4. Submission and Follow-up
We submit requests to Google, Bing, ChatGPT and other platforms, and closely monitor the entire process.5. In Case of Rejection
If your request is denied, we file a mediation request with the Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP). If the AP agrees with our reasoning, search engines often comply with the original request afterwards.6. Evidence & Monitoring
After successful removal, we offer monitoring to ensure that your data does not reappear and that new mentions are promptly detected. This provides long-term peace of mind and certainty.
Veelgestelde vragen (FAQ) over verwijderverzoeken
When does a request not qualify?
A request is unlikely to succeed if the information is still current, or if there is an overriding public interest in its availability (for example, concerning public office, political activities, or serious criminal cases).
What is the success rate of a request?
We only accept cases with a strong likelihood of success. Our actual success rate is around 95%. That doesn’t mean every case is guaranteed, but we explain your individual prospects during a personal consultation.
Can MediaMaze advise on whether I should file a request?
Yes. Sometimes it’s advisable first to improve the broader context (“environment”) before submitting a request. We always give honest and realistic advice.
What if the search engine or LLM rejects my request?
We file a well-founded objection on your behalf. If necessary, we escalate the matter to the Information Commisionners Office (ICO).
How does a request to ChatGPT or other LLMs work?
AI platforms also fall under the GDPR. Although their processes can be slower, we know how to ensure your request is properly handled.
Can I also subscribe to monitoring?
Yes. See our separate service: Online Reputation Monitor.
Is this service only for private individuals?
No. Requests can be filed by any natural person in a broad sense: from entrepreneurs and company directors to professionals and private individuals.
How does the intake process work?
After receiving your details, we analyse your case and discuss our findings with you by phone. You then receive concrete advice on the next steps.
Can I submit a request myself without MediaMaze?
Yes, but our added value lies in the legal substantiation and strategic approach we provide.
How long does the processing of a request usually take?
Google typically takes four to eight weeks. For LLMs, it may take longer. If objections or DPA mediation are involved, the process can extend by several months. We usually submit a request within two weeks.
How much does it cost to file a request through you?
That depends on the case, but our services start from €895 excl. VAT — this includes intake and submission to a data controller such as Google (Alphabet), Bing (Microsoft), ChatGPT (OpenAI), etc.
If multiple URLs or complex cases are involved, costs typically range between €895 and €1,495 excl. VAT, all-in (for multiple data controllers combined).
Are my details handled confidentially?
Absolutely. Confidentiality and discretion are core values of our service. Requests to search engines and LLMs are handled privately and are not made public. The same applies to mediation requests submitted to the Data Protection Authority.
Why choose MediaMaze?
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Over 10 years of experience in online reputation management.
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Hundreds of successful GDPR erasure requests since the right was introduced.
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Legal proceedings against search engines, including Google.
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Strategic insight – we know which cases are viable and which are not.
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Combination of legal precision and practical experience.
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Discreet, personal support.
