How do I get someone to remove a video they took of me from all social media platforms?

Hi, my name is Randy and I'm happy to assist you today.

I understand you're dealing with a frustrating situation where someone agreed verbally to remove your video but hasn't followed through. Let me walk you through your options with the corrected legal framework in mind.

Start by documenting everything you can remember about that verbal agreement—date, time, what was said, who else might have been present, follow-up conversations. Even though you felt "caught off guard" when you initially said yes, that context could work in your favor legally if you need to argue the agreement wasn't made freely.

Reach out to the uploader again, but this time in writing—text, email, social media message. Reference your previous conversation and clearly state you are withdrawing any consent you may have given and demanding immediate removal from all platforms. Give a deadline (48–72 hours) and mention you will pursue other remedies.

Since you've already tried reporting, let’s make your attempts more strategic: focus on privacy violations or unauthorized use of your likeness. Don’t only report once; platforms often require multiple submissions.

Copyright probably won’t work unless you filmed the video.

You may have legal grounds under "right of publicity" or privacy laws if the video was taken in a private place or causes emotional harm.

If reports and communication fail, consider a lawyer who handles privacy or media law. They can send a formal cease and desist letter.

You can also set up Google Alerts to catch reuploads.

Helpful Resources

• Electronic Frontier Foundation – Know Your Rights
• DMCA Takedown Information (U.S. Copyright Office)
• California Right of Publicity Statute (example law)
• YouTube Privacy / Reporting
• Facebook Privacy Reporting
• Instagram Privacy Reporting
• TikTok Privacy & Reporting
• Find a Lawyer – State Bar Associations Directory
• Cyber Civil Rights Initiative (for online harassment / non-consensual content)

I'm sorry you're dealing with both the video situation and being Baker Acted—that’s extremely stressful. The fact that this video issue contributed to a mental health crisis actually strengthens your legal case for removal.

A Baker Act record shows documented emotional distress caused by the video.

That can support:

• Intentional infliction of emotional distress
• Stronger privacy claims
• Faster platform response

What to do now:

Tell the uploader again in writing that the video caused severe distress and emergency mental health intervention. Demand immediate removal.

When reporting to platforms, state the video has caused documented psychological harm.

Keep all Baker Act records; these are powerful evidence.