Google is enhancing its measures to combat non-consensual sexually explicit fake content, commonly known as "deepfakes," in its Search platform. These updates aim to provide better protection and control for individuals affected by such content.
Easier Ways to Remove Content
Google has streamlined its removal processes to help individuals more effectively remove non-consensual explicit fake imagery from Search. Key updates include:
- Simplified request procedures for removing explicit non-consensual fake content.
- Systems that filter out explicit results related to similar searches once content is removed.
- Automatic scanning and removal of duplicate images once an initial image is removed.
These measures build on existing protections for other types of non-consensual imagery, aiming to provide peace of mind to those concerned about future occurrences.
Improved Ranking Systems
To mitigate the presence of harmful content, Google is updating its ranking systems:
- Lowering the ranking of explicit fake content in search results.
- Prioritizing high-quality, non-explicit content, such as relevant news articles, for queries that might otherwise yield explicit fake results.
- Distinguishing between real, consensual explicit content and fake explicit content, despite the technical challenges.
Additionally, sites with a high volume of removals for fake explicit imagery will be demoted in search rankings, a strategy proven effective for other harmful content types.
Ongoing Efforts
Google acknowledges that these updates are significant but not exhaustive. The company will continue to develop new solutions and collaborate with industry partners and experts to address the broader issue of non-consensual explicit fake content.
