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Google Faces Munich Lawsuit Seeking Proactive De‑Listing of Leaked Intimate Images

The case asks whether Article 17 GDPR obliges search engines to stop identical or core‑identical images from resurfacing without new notices.

Overview

  • The Munich regional court confirmed receipt of the suit, gave Google until the end of September to file its response, and has not set a hearing date.
  • The plaintiffs seek permanent removal of identical and so‑called kerngleiche results in web and image search, proactive technical detection, and damages for non‑material harm.
  • HateAid backs the case and, despite being a Bundesnetzagentur‑certified Trusted Flagger, reported roughly 2,000 URLs over 18 months that were delisted and then repeatedly reuploaded.
  • The images were stolen from a private cloud along with identity data, circulated on porn sites and file‑sharing services, spawned AI deepfakes, and forced major life changes for the couple.
  • Google says protecting privacy is a priority and describes removal as technically challenging, and legal experts expect a drawn‑out dispute that could require guidance from EU higher courts.