Censorship by Google facts for kids

Censorship by Google means that the company Google sometimes removes information from its search results or other services. This happens to follow different censorship laws in various countries or to stick to Google's own rules. For example, in 2002, Google removed some search results about Scientology.

What is Google Censorship?

Google is a huge company that offers many services, like its search engine, YouTube, and Google Maps. When we talk about "censorship by Google," it means that Google decides to take down or hide certain information from these services. This can be because of rules from governments or because of Google's own policies.

Why Does Google Remove Information?

There are several reasons why Google might remove information. It's often a balance between allowing free access to information and following rules or protecting people.

Following Laws

Different countries have different laws about what can be shown online. For example, some countries have laws against certain types of speech or content. If Google operates in that country, it must follow those local laws. This means that something you can see in one country might be blocked in another.

Google's Own Rules

Google also has its own set of rules, called "community guidelines" or "terms of service." These rules explain what kind of content is allowed on their platforms. For instance, Google's rules usually forbid content that promotes violence, hate speech, or dangerous activities. If content breaks these rules, Google might remove it.

Keeping Users Safe

Sometimes, information is removed to keep users safe. This could involve taking down content that is misleading or harmful. For example, Google might remove fake information that could cause real-world harm. They also work to protect people's privacy by removing personal details if asked.

How Does This Affect What You See?

When Google removes information, it means you might not find certain websites, videos, or images through their services. This can change what information you see when you search for something online. It's important to remember that not everything you see (or don't see) on the internet is the full picture. Thinking critically about information and looking at different sources can help you get a broader view.

A Look at Past Examples

Google has removed information in the past for various reasons. One early example happened in 2002. At that time, Google removed some search results related to Scientology. This was done to comply with a legal request at the time. Such actions show how Google navigates the complex world of online information and different rules.

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