Sometimes, certain websites keep showing up in your search results—and you don’t want them there. Maybe it’s a spammy site, an old blog post, or a review that feels unfair. Whatever it is, you want it gone.
While Google doesn’t let you fully block other websites from everyone’s search results, you can block them from your own. And in some cases, you can remove them from Google completely.
Here’s how to do both.
Why You Might Want to Block a Site
Google tries to show you the best and most useful results. But sometimes it gets it wrong.
You might want to block a site because:
- It posts spammy content
- It shares private or outdated info
- It spreads false claims
- It’s irrelevant to what you’re searching
- It keeps bringing up something you’d rather forget
In some cases, the issue is personal. That’s when blocking or removing links becomes a reputation fix—not just a search preference.
A 2022 survey by Search Engine Journal found that 80% of people have searched their own name online. More than half didn’t like what they saw.
Method 1: Block Sites from Your Own Search Results
Google used to let you block sites directly. That feature is gone. But there are other ways.
Use the “Personal Blocklist” Chrome Extension
This free tool was built by Google engineers. It hides sites from your search results once you add them to the list.
Steps:
- Install the “Personal Blocklist (by Google)” extension from the Chrome Web Store
- When you search, click “Block” next to any result you don’t want to see again
- The next time you search, that site won’t appear
You can unblock it later if you change your mind.
This only affects your browser. Other people will still see the site unless they use the same extension.
Use a Custom Search Engine
You can build your own version of Google search with blocked sites.
Go to Programmable Search Engine and set up a search tool. Add any domains you want to block. Then use this tool when you want to avoid those results.
It takes a little setup, but it works across devices and can be shared.
Method 2: Use Google’s Built-in Tools
Report Outdated Content
If a page still shows in search but the content has changed or been deleted, you can request removal.
Go to Google’s Outdated Content Tool. Paste the link and follow the prompts.
If Google agrees, it will remove the link from search results—usually within 5 to 10 business days.
Request to Remove Personal Info
Google may remove results that include:
- Your home address
- Your phone number
- Medical records
- Government ID numbers
- Non-consensual explicit photos
Use Google’s Content Removal Request Form.
You’ll need to explain why the content is harmful and how it puts you at risk. Attach screenshots or proof if needed.
If approved, the result will be taken down for everyone—not just you.
Timeline
Most removal reviews take 7 to 14 days. Google will email you once a decision is made. They won’t always give reasons, but they’ll let you know if it worked.
Method 3: Try to Get the Site Taken Down
If you want a page gone from everywhere, not just from search, you need to go to the source.
Contact the site owner
Look for a “Contact” or “About” page. Politely explain the issue and ask them to remove the content or take down the page.
Include:
- A link to the page
- A short reason why it should come down
- Any legal or factual info that supports your request
Some people are helpful. Others ignore you. But it’s always worth asking.
File a DMCA complaint (for copyright issues)
If the page is using your writing, photos, or videos without permission, file a DMCA takedown request.
If it’s approved, the content gets removed from Google and sometimes from the host site too.
Use a content removal service
If all else fails, you can hire a pro. A content removal service works with lawyers, SEO experts, and PR teams to either take the link down or push it off page one.
This option costs money, but it saves time. Especially if you’re dealing with fake reviews, court records, or articles you can’t fix yourself.
If you’re trying to figure out how to remove negative search results from Google, this route often works faster than DIY.
What Not to Do
Don’t threaten websites or webmasters. That backfires.
Don’t file fake legal complaints. Google can ban you from making future requests.
Don’t pay sketchy sites to remove listings—they might take your money and repost it later.
And don’t ignore it. A bad link on page one gets clicks. You’re better off taking action.
Keep Your Name Clean Going Forward
Once you block or remove a site, keep an eye on your name.
Set up Google Alerts
Go to Google Alerts and add your name, business, or any keywords you want to track. You’ll get an email when something new pops up.
Publish your own content
Control what shows up first. Post articles, videos, or updates on:
- Medium
- Your own website
- Social profiles
Search engines love fresh, useful content, professional profiles and interview style content. The more you post, the less space there is for junk.
Monitor monthly
Search your name once a month in private mode. Check the first two pages. If anything weird shows up, take a screenshot and deal with it early.
Final Thoughts
You can’t always delete what’s online—but you can control what shows up.
Use tools to block results from your own view. Use Google’s forms to request removal. If needed, go further with direct takedowns or professional help.
The goal isn’t to erase everything. It’s to make sure the right things show up first.
Your name is your brand. Keep it clean. Keep it accurate. And don’t let low-quality sites decide how the world sees you.
Sky 
Backlinks Hub