Ask HN: Google is confusing me with others in a harmful way – what can I do?

Article summary

The author, Andrea, wrote a non-fiction book about her experiences as a victim of sex crimes and published it without including a photo of herself online. However, Google created a knowledge panel for her with a photo of a different person, causing harm to that person and others. Despite Andrea's efforts to correct the issue, Google continued to display incorrect photos. The problem was eventually resolved after Andrea posted about it on Hacker News.

Main themes

• Google knowledge panel errors
• algorithmic flaws
• online harassment
• copyright and internet law
• corporate accountability
• reputation management

What commenters say

• The author should take Google to court to prove harm and seek resolution.
• Contacting a lawyer specializing in copyright and internet laws may be the best course of action.
• Google's algorithm is flawed and will continue to cause problems unless it is improved or unless the affected individuals take action.
• The burden of correcting false information should not be on the individual, but rather on Google to ensure the accuracy of its knowledge panels.
• The author and others affected should consider working together to sue Google and bring attention to the issue.
• Google may only take action if there is a significant monetary and PR cost, such as through a lawsuit or negative publicity.
• Claiming the knowledge panel may not be a viable solution, as it requires a Google account and does not guarantee control over the content.
• The issue highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency from Google in its handling of user data and knowledge panels.