In the digital age, bad press can have real-world consequences. A negative article, viral tweet, or damning review can damage trust, derail opportunities, and become the first thing people see when they Google you or your business.
But the good news? You’re not powerless. Whether the coverage is fair or defamatory, there are effective ways to remove harmful content—or bury it deep enough that it no longer causes harm.
Step 1: Can You Get It Removed?
Start by figuring out if the bad press violates laws or platform rules. In many cases, legal action or reporting violations can get the content removed entirely.
Legal Options: Is It Defamation?
If someone has published false claims presented as facts, it may qualify as defamation — either libel (written) or slander (spoken). Defamation laws vary by location, so consult a lawyer. If your case qualifies, your attorney may send a cease-and-desist letter, request a retraction, or even file a lawsuit.
Addressing Doxxing
If the press or comments include personal, identifying information — like your address or Social Security number — and it was shared with malicious intent, Google allows removal via its doxxing form. This applies to info like bank details, passport scans, and even your signature.
Exploitative Takedown Demands
Some shady sites offer to remove content — for a fee. If that’s the case, Google may intervene by de-indexing the content (removing it from search), especially if it’s a clear extortion tactic. This doesn’t usually apply to legitimate review platforms, though.
Non-Consensual or Explicit Content
If the coverage includes non-consensual explicit images or deepfakes involving your likeness, you can request Google to remove it. This also includes AI-generated fake images that misrepresent you.
Violations of Community Guidelines
Most platforms—like Reddit, Facebook, or industry forums—have rules against harassment, false claims, or explicit content. If the post breaks the platform’s guidelines, report it with clear documentation.
Step 2: Suppress What You Can’t Remove
If the content can’t be taken down, your next best move is to bury it. Most users never scroll past the top few search results—so the goal is to replace the bad with better.
Publish Fresh, Positive Content
Google favors recent, high-quality content. That gives you an opportunity to outrank older bad press with updated material. Start with:
- Optimized blog posts on your website
- Guest articles on credible publications
- Thought leadership on LinkedIn, Medium, or Substack
- Social media content that links back to your site
Consistency is key. The more relevant and frequent your content, the higher the chance it will replace the negative links in search results.
Build High-Quality Backlinks
Google trusts content that’s linked from reputable sources. Secure backlinks from news sites, industry blogs, or influencers to give your new content authority — and search engine traction.
Update Your Digital Footprint
Review and refresh every place your name or brand appears: bios, social profiles, press kits, and website metadata. Make sure your best story is front and center.
Step 3: Rebuild Trust with Authentic Actions
Encourage Positive Reviews
If you’re a business, invite satisfied customers to leave honest reviews on Google, Yelp, or niche directories. This helps counterbalance negative feedback and rebuilds public perception.
Own Up When Necessary
If the bad press came from a mistake, consider issuing a sincere, public apology. A thoughtful statement that takes responsibility and outlines your plan to fix things can be surprisingly powerful in reshaping your image.
Final Thoughts: It’s About Recovery, Not Erasure
Negative press feels personal — but it doesn’t have to define your brand. With the right blend of legal recourse, proactive content, and transparent communication, you can take control of the narrative and move forward with confidence.
