Remove Mugshots From Google Images
Most people are aware that a criminal record can follow you around for the rest of your life if you don’t remove your mugshot from Google Images. What many don’t realize is that this includes your mugshot appearing in a Google search of your name. This can make it very difficult to move on from your past and live a normal, productive life.
How Mugshots Get Online
Luckily, there are ways to remove mugshots from Google Images (and other search engines). With some time and effort, you can take control of your reputation and ensure that potential employers or dates won't be able to find evidence of your criminal record with just a few clicks. There are two main ways that mugshots end up being publicly available online:
Arrest Records: In most states, arrest records are public information. This means anyone who wants access to them can simply go through the proper channels and request them.
Mugshot Websites: There are also numerous websites dedicated entirely to publishing booking photographs online.
These sites will frequently post mugshots without the consent of those involved or even verify whether the charges have been dropped or expunged.
The Negative Consequences
Of An Online Mugshot"While having an online presence is generally considered positive," says media consultant Grant Ainsley, "there's no doubt an unflattering photo like a mugshot coming up in image searches creates problems." Some specific consequences include:
Damage To Your Reputation - Even if you were never convicted of a crime, simply being arrested can damage your reputation. If someone sees your booking photo come up when they Google you, they may automatically assume you're guilty - even if charges were never filed. Arrest records hinder Future Opportunities - A potential employer doing a background check on you is likely to see your arrest record pop up. They might not give you the job because they don't want to be associated with someone who has been arrested, even if it wasn't for anything serious.
What is a mugshot?
A mugshot is a photograph that is taken of a person who has been arrested. The photograph is taken by the police department and it appears on the Internet, in newspapers, and on TV. This can be very embarrassing for the person involved and can make it difficult to find employment or housing. There are companies that will help you remove your mugshot from Google Images and other search engines.
The problem with online mugshots
There are many problems that can come with online mugshots. For one, they are often posted without the person's consent or knowledge. This can be humiliating and cause them a great deal of stress. Additionally, these mugshots are often accompanied by personal information such as the person's name and address. This can make it very difficult for people to get hired or find housing if their criminal record is easily accessible online. Finally, even if a person's charges are later dropped or they are found innocent, their mugshot will still be visible online which can continue to damage their reputation long after the incident occurred.
How online mugshots can impact your life and career
An online mugshot can significantly impact your life and career. Many employers conduct internet searches as part of their background check process, and an online mugshot can result in you being passed over for a job opportunity. In addition, landlords and other leasing agents may also search the internet for information about potential tenants, so an online mugshot could prevent you from securing housing. If your mugshot is visible when someone conducts a web search on your name, it can also damage your personal relationships or cause embarrassment to yourself or loved ones.
Reputation management companies that remove online mugshots
There are many companies that offer reputation management services and can help remove online mugshots. These companies typically use a combination of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) techniques and online public relations to bury negative information about their clients so it is less visible on the internet. Some people try to remove their own mugshots from Google Images by requesting that the search engine take them down, but this is usually unsuccessful. The best way to get rid of an online mugshot is to hire a company that specializes in reputation management.
Should you pay to have your Mugshot removed from Google Images?
There are a few companies that will offer to remove your mugshot from Google Images for a fee. While this may be tempting, we advise against it. These companies often don’t deliver on their promise, and you could end up paying hundreds of dollars with no results. If you want to remove your mugshot from Google Images, the best thing to do is contact an experienced reputation management service provider or contact the website publishing the mugshot.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Alex Adekola
Alex Adekola has been developing websites since 2002 and engaging in organic search optimization, and public relations since 2005. After launching Incept Design in 2008 Alex watched the evolution of the web, search, mobile, software, and digital media in an ever-changing security environment. He has placed companies on top of Google increasing their revenue consistently while developing strong expertise in strategies that effectively leverage search and digital media that achieve client objectives.
Alex currently implements strategies to mitigate black swan events that can adversely impact an organization; this leverage is also extended to individuals that need to manage a crisis impacting digital mediums.
Copyright Alex Adekola
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer.For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author.
