What’s the big idea here?

When you’re worried about a harmful article, it’s natural to type your name into Google and click it. Please don’t. That specific action teaches Google, “this page is relevant for this person’s name,” which can keep the link stuck near the top.

What is a “direct URL”?

A direct URL is the exact web address of the page you want us to review. It’s the text you see in a browser’s address bar, usually starting with http:// or https:// (for example: https://news-example.com/local/police-blotter-may-15).

  • Clicking a direct URL is fine.

  • Searching your name and then clicking the result is the problem.

Why? Because Google connects your query (your name) → click → time on page. That combo can make the result “stick” for your name.

What should I do instead of Googling my name?

Send us the direct URLs of the exact pages. That lets our team evaluate, plan, and act—without feeding Google more name-based clicks.

How to get the direct URL (step-by-step)

Easiest, no-tech way

  • If you already have the link in a text or email: press and hold (phone) or right-click (computer) the link, then choose Copy Link. Paste it into your message to us. You don’t need to open it.

From Google results (without opening the page)

  • Computer (Chrome/Edge/Firefox):

    1. On the results page, right-click the blue title of the result.

    2. Click Copy link address.

    3. Paste that into your note to us.

  • iPhone/Android:

    1. On the results page, press and hold the result title.

    2. Tap Copy link.

    3. Paste it.
      (Important: Don’t click the result after searching your name.)

From the article page itself (safe way)

If someone already sent you the direct link and you opened it that way (you did not search your name to get there):

  • Tap/click the address bar and Copy the full web address.

  • Paste it for us.
    (This is okay because you didn’t trigger a name-based search.)

From social media

  • Tap the post’s … menu → Copy link. Paste it.
    (Avoid opening the destination by searching your name.)

If you really can’t copy a link

Send us: publisher name + exact headline + date. We’ll locate it carefully on our side without creating more name-based clicks.

What not to do (and why)

  • Don’t search your name and click the article “just to check.” That creates the exact signal we’re trying to avoid.

  • Don’t refresh/revisit the article from search.

  • Don’t comment under the story—engagement can boost it.

  • Don’t share your name + outlet in group chats or social posts; people will search and click.

I already clicked from Google—did I ruin it?

No. Just stop now and switch to direct URLs. The sooner those name-based clicks stop, the better.

Simple “Do vs. Don’t” summary

  • Do: copy and send direct URLs.

  • Do: ask friends/colleagues to share links, not “Google + your name.”

  • Don’t: search your name and click the article.

  • Don’t: comment, share, or “check on it” repeatedly.

More help, in one place

For step-by-step strategy, timelines, and plain-English FAQs, open our Internet Content Removal Resource Hub.

Want tailored advice on your exact links?

National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.