Frequently asked questions

Yes, for eligible cases. Search engines grant a significant proportion of properly submitted Right to Be Forgotten requests, particularly for old, minor offences and outdated content. But it is not guaranteed, and serious or recent matters are frequently refused. Search engines publish transparency data showing that refusal rates are substantial.

No. The Right to Be Forgotten results in delisting — the URL no longer appears in searches for your name within the UK and EU. The underlying page remains online. Removing the source content requires contacting the publisher directly.

Google (approximately 92% of UK searches) and Bing (approximately 6%) are the primary targets. Yahoo’s results are largely powered by Bing, and we submit where relevant.

Search engines are required to respond within one month, though complex cases may extend. Follow-up clarification can add time.

No. The balancing test is discretionary. We provide an honest assessment of likely prospects before accepting a case.

Requests can still be made, but the public-interest argument is stronger before a conviction becomes spent. Success is less likely, but not impossible, depending on the circumstances.

No. The Right to Be Forgotten applies to individuals. Corporations generally cannot use it to delist their company name.

You can complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office. The ICO can assess whether the search engine has properly balanced your rights, and may intervene where it finds the refusal unlawful. We can assist with preparing a complaint or a revised request.