Removing Videos of My Daughters Taken by Neighbor’s Drone from YouTube

As a parent, you might be concerned when you see videos of your children taken by your neighbor's drone on YouTube. You might ask, How do I get these videos removed? The answer depends on the circumstances, but there are several steps you can take to address the issue.

Understanding the Privacy Laws

First, it is important to understand the laws surrounding privacy and drones. In many jurisdictions, including the United States, you don't have a reasonable expectation of privacy over the airspace above your home. Therefore, if a neighbor uses a drone to collect footage within that airspace, they can usually do so without infringing on your privacy rights.

However, the legality can change when the footage features minors, especially if it was collected without explicit consent. This is why Google was fined $170 million by the FTC for violating children's privacy by displaying videos on YouTube without parental permission.

How to Report the Videos on YouTube

If the videos of your daughters are posted on YouTube, you can take action by reporting them. Google takes actions involving children seriously, and you can have these videos removed. Here are the steps you should follow:

Step-by-Step Process

Identify the videos: Note the URLs of the videos in question to make the removal process smoother. Report individual videos: If you need to report one or two videos, use this form: Report an entire channel: If the videos are part of a larger collection, use this form: Document your actions: Take screenshots of the videos, keep copies of your takedown requests, and any responses you receive from YouTube.

Getting Legal Protection

If the drone footage is still being disseminated, you may want to pursue legal action. Here are some steps to take:

File a lawsuit: You can sue the person who took the videos, demanding an order to cease taking and posting future videos of your family. Obtain a harassment protection order: This would prevent the person from taking videos of you and your family and posting them online, especially if they have been previously warned. Research local laws: The laws regarding videography and harassment can vary by state. For example, in Washington State, you can find information on videotaping and protection orders.

Contact Local Authorities

Finally, it is advisable to contact your local police department to walk you through the process of getting a protection order for harassment. They can provide the necessary legal support and ensure that any threatening behavior is documented.

By understanding the nuances of privacy laws, contacting the appropriate authorities, and using YouTube's reporting tools, you can take a proactive approach to safeguarding your family's online presence.