Delisting is the process of requesting that eligible content be excluded from search results. Walther Kranz helps organisations assess online reputation risks, document the evidence and coordinate appropriate requests. Removing a search result does not remove the original page from the internet.
When a delisting assessment helps
An assessment can help when search results show outdated information, exposed personal information, impersonation or content for which a specific platform-policy or legal basis may apply. Critical reporting or an unfavourable opinion is not, by itself, a reason for removal.
What we do
We review the relevant URLs and search results, distinguish original publications from copies and investigate technical connections between sites. Our collaboration with Wiener Labs brings technical investigation into the communications response.
We prepare an evidence file, identify the appropriate publisher or platform channel and coordinate requests within the agreed scope. Where legal assessment is required, we work with the client’s legal advisers.
A clear process
1. Assessment: establish the affected URLs, search terms, markets and the reason for the request.
2. Evidence: record the content and its distribution, distinguish verified findings from unresolved observations, and assess the available response options.
3. Coordination: prepare and track appropriate requests with the client’s authorisation. Publishers and platforms make their own decisions.
4. Follow-up: check source-page availability and search visibility separately, recording dates, locations and any remaining uncertainty.
What you receive
An initial findings report, a URL and evidence register, an action plan, a request-status record and follow-up reporting. Scope and reporting frequency are agreed after the initial assessment.
What can be removed?
Eligibility depends on the content, the applicable policy or legal basis and the decision of the publisher or search provider. We do not promise removal of every negative result, a fixed completion date or permanent worldwide disappearance.
Delisting or removal at source?
Delisting affects a search result. A publisher request addresses the original content. If a page has already changed or disappeared, an outdated-result refresh may be the appropriate route. Google’s removal guidance explains these different options.
Part of a wider reputation response
Technical action can be coordinated with crisis communications. Learn more about our digital forensic approach.
Discuss a delisting assessment
Contact Walther Kranz with a brief outline of the issue and the affected websites. We will agree the scope and a suitable way to share supporting evidence.