Removing Outdated Content From Google: A Practical Guide

The Challenges of Removing Outdated Content from Google 

The biggest challenge you will face when it comes to removing outdated content on third-party websites is that you have no control over the site. Unlike your site, where you can update and delete information as needed, third party sites require a different approach.

You will need to contact the website administrator, or use tools provided by Google to remove the content. Outdated content on third party sites can vary, they generally include information that is no longer relevant, accurate, or reflects the current situation.

What is Outdated Content?

Outdated content can be old contact details, product listings, and services you business no longer offers. It is content that when left unaddressed, it can result in misrepresentations and misunderstandings about your business.

How Outdated Content Impacts Search Results

In our experience, we have seen first-hand how outdated content on third-party websites, particularly, can have a major impact on your reputation. When this outdated content appears in search results, it misleads your audience.

How It Affects Your Reputation

Can you imagine a potential customer searching online and comes across outdated content on a third party site? This can be your old contact information, discontinued services, or team members that no longer work at your company. These inaccuracies can lead to lost traffic. It's not uncommon for potential customers to perceive your business as unreliable when coming across outdated information online.

Google is Striving for Accurate Information

Let's put this into perspective. Google manages close to nine billion searches daily, often the first point of contact between you and your target audience. It shapes first impressions, influencing decisions. It is essential that your information is current and accurate, helping you maintain credibility.

Identifying Outdated Content

There are a few ways you can check for outdated content, identifying what content needs to be removed from Google, this includes:

• Online search – carry out searches on Google for your business name. Don't only look at the first page of results, as outdated content rarely ranks well
• Google Alerts – Google alerts lets you set alerts for your business name, so you are notified the minute new content goes live, helping you catch outdated content quickly
• Other platforms – don't forget to keep a close eye on your profile and mentions on other platforms, such as directories and social media sites

Removing Outdated Content from Google 

At Genie Crawl, removing URLs with old content is a common task. The process of requesting Google to remove the content is important, often hosted on third party sites.

The Process

The removal process involves submitting a request to Google to remove the outdated content from search results. This should only be used when you don't have direct control over the content, meaning its on a website you don't manage or own.

Google's Remove Outdated Content Tool

Google's Remove Outdated Content tool is designed to help you remove content that I no longer live, or has been updated, yet it still appears in Google search engine results pages (SERPs). This involves a step-by-step process:

1. Visit Google's Remove Outdated Content Page, accessible through Google Search Console
2. Enter the URL of the information you want to remove. If it's an image, use the image URL
3. After submission, Google checks whether the page is live or if the content has been updated. This step is essential in determining if your request is eligible
4. If the content is no longer live or has been changed, you can proceed with the removal. Simply click on the Request Removal button. You may need to add additional details, such as a snippet or cached version that displays the outdated content
5. Track the status of your request 
6. This process does take time, so be patient

Conclusion

Outdated content must be addressed effectively. It's a step that protects your online reputation. With the digital landscape constantly evolving, it's essential you maintain accurate and current online content. When you stay informed and vigilant, you can manage your digital footprint, maintaining a good online reputation. If you need help removing outdated content from Google, remember the Genie Crawl team is here to assist. Contact us today for more information.