Having personal content leaked online can be distressing and invasive. This guide outlines the process for removing such content from adult websites. Most mainstream platforms have content removal procedures in place, though their responsiveness varies significantly.
Sites like Pornhub and Redtube typically respond to formal takedown requests within 24-48 hours, while smaller or offshore sites may ignore requests entirely, requiring escalation to third parties. The likelihood of direct removal depends largely on the site’s legitimacy, jurisdiction, and content policies.
Document Everything
Before beginning the removal process:
- Take screenshots of the content (only enough to identify it)
- Record the exact URLs where the content appears
- Note when you discovered the content
- Document any identifying information that connects you to the content
Content Removal Methods
Direct Website Contact
The most straightforward approach is to contact the platform directly. There are typically many points of contact on these websites, such as:
- Contact page
- About Us page
- Terms of Use Page
- Footer
- Specific Removal page
Search Engine Removal (Google/Bing/Yahoo)
Even if content remains on websites, you can request that search engines remove it from results. There are many benefits from this, for example, the significant reduction in visibility of the content. Removing the offending links from the search results can reduce exposure by as much as 95%. Additionally, removing the links from the search results can provide immediate protection while pursuing the full removal of the content.
Legal Removal Frameworks
DMCA/Copyright Takedown
If you own the content (self-created images/videos), then we can file a takedown notice claiming infringement. Most major platforms abide by DMCA and Copyright laws. These types of requests can be used when attempting removal directly from the website or through the search engines.
Revenge Porn Laws
If content was shared without consent, then many jurisdictions have specific laws against non-consensual pornography, which can be used to help the removal process, along with Revenge Porn laws. Similar to a DMCA/Copyright takedown, the applications can be made directly to the website or the search engines.
GDPR/Privacy Requests (For EU/UK Residents)
If the content can be found when searching for your name, the General Data Protection Regulation can be enforced to ensure the removal of the content. Most major platforms abide by GDPR laws, and it can be used in applications, both directly to websites and search engines.
Escalation Options
ICO Complaints
Unfortunately, the Information Commissioner’s Office do not handle cases related to porn.
Legal Representation/Law Enforcement
For severe cases or unresponsive platforms, there are a few escalation options. We can source a solicitor and consolidate your case for them. We can also help you escalate your case to the police and action a court-ordered removal.
Additional Protection Measures
While pursuing removal, we can continuously monitor your search results for any new negative content. If removal is not possible, we also offer reputation management services to help suppress the negatives and reduce the visibility of the offending content.