Stuck with a Harmful News Article? Here’s What You Can Do.
If a news outlet refuses to remove an article about you or your business, you’re not out of options. While most publishers won’t delete content just because it’s negative, there are proven ways to reduce its impact—or even get it removed.
Here’s how to handle a stubborn news article, from negotiating directly to suppressing it in search.
Dig Deeper: How to Delete a Google Review
Why News Outlets Refuse to Remove Articles
News sites have a strong incentive to keep content live. Articles drive traffic, generate ad revenue, and represent their journalistic history. They often refuse removal requests because they see it as a matter of editorial integrity.
Common reasons for refusal:
- The article is factually accurate
- The publisher has a “no deletion” policy
- The content is considered newsworthy
- The site doesn’t want to set a precedent for removals
But that doesn’t mean you’re powerless.
Step 1: Request a Correction or Update
If the article contains inaccurate, outdated, or misleading information, ask for a correction rather than full removal.
- Contact the journalist or editor directly
- Highlight specific errors (dates, quotes, facts)
- Provide clear evidence to support your request
- Be polite, but direct
Example email:
“Hi [Editor’s Name],
I’m reaching out regarding the article titled ‘[Article Title]’ published on [Date]. The article states that [incorrect info], but the correct information is [correct info]. I’ve attached documentation to support this. Would you be able to update the article to reflect the accurate information?
Thank you for your time and consideration.”
Step 2: Request Deindexing in Search Engines
If the outlet refuses to change or delete the article, you can request deindexing from Google, Bing, and other search engines.
- Use Google’s Right to Be Forgotten (EU/UK only)
- Submit a privacy complaint for sensitive information (like your home address)
- Use Google’s Outdated Content Removal Tool for pages that no longer match current content
This removes the article from search results without deleting it from the site.
Step 3: Suppress the Article with New Content
If removal and deindexing aren’t possible, your best option is suppression.
- Create and publish fresh, positive content about you or your business
- Target your name or brand name in page titles, URLs, and headings
- Publish on high-authority sites (LinkedIn, Medium, press releases)
- Build backlinks to your new content to boost its ranking
The goal is to push the negative article off the first page of search results, where most people won’t see it.
Step 4: Explore Legal Options
If the article is:
- Defamatory (false and damaging to your reputation)
- A violation of privacy (reveals personal information without consent)
- Misleading in a way that causes harm
You may have legal grounds for removal. Consult an attorney to explore your options, including a defamation lawsuit, cease and desist letter, or court order.
Step 5: Leverage Online Reputation Management Services
If you’re dealing with a high-profile article or don’t have the time to fight it alone, a professional service can help. At Reputation Galaxy, we specialise in:
- Direct negotiations with publishers
- Legal support for defamation cases
- Advanced search suppression strategies
- Fast response for crisis situations
Final Thoughts: Never Take “No” for an Answer
A news outlet’s refusal to remove an article isn’t the end of the story. With the right approach, you can minimise its impact, correct false information, or even get it pushed out of sight.
Need Help Removing or Suppressing a News Article?
At Reputation Galaxy, we’ve helped clients get harmful articles removed, corrected, or buried—fast. Whether it’s a local news piece or a national scandal, we’ve got your back.
No win, no fee. Private support. Proven results.
Get a Free Quote or call us now to take control of your narrative.