In the context of international sanctions and global regulatory restrictions, restoring reputation and reestablishing business activity becomes the top priority for companies and individuals listed in databases that collect negative information. The reasons for being included in such registries as World-Check, LexisNexis, Dow Jones, Bloomberg, and others can vary: sanctions, politically exposed person (PEP) status, criminal associations, suspicions of financial fraud, and other circumstances. These databases are actively used by banks, financial institutions, investors, and international partners to assess risks and make decisions about cooperation.
What Risks Does Inclusion in International Databases Create?
Being included in international databases can lead to serious problems for both businesses and individuals. Companies may face account freezes, denials of funding, and loss of trust from partners. Individuals, in turn, may experience restrictions in accessing international financial services and risk their professional reputation.
These databases often contain outdated or false information, which further exacerbates the situation. However, organizations and individuals can request the removal or correction of data if it is incorrect or outdated.
Step-by-Step strategy for data removal
Step 1. File Analysis
The first step in getting removed from international databases is requesting the file. To do this, you need to contact the operators of the relevant databases, such as World-Check, Dow Jones, or LexisNexis, with an official request for information. Organizations and individuals have the right to access the information contained in these registries. After receiving a copy of the file, a thorough audit should be conducted to identify false or outdated information.
This process is legally protected by data protection laws, such as GDPR in Europe. This means that companies and individuals have the right to access data, correct it, or request its deletion if it is false or outdated, and database operators are obligated to consider such requests. Contacting data operators should be formal and accompanied by documents justifying the need for data review.
Step 2. Interaction with database operators
The next step is official interaction with the database operators. A formal request must be prepared, following the established standards. A sample template for such a request can be found on the database operators’ websites, or you can consult a lawyer to draft an appropriate request. The formal request for changes must be supported by evidence. For example, if the PEP status is no longer relevant, it is important to provide appropriate supporting documents.
In some cases, legal expertise may be required to prove that the data is outdated or incorrect. This is particularly important when there are contentious data on suspicions of financial fraud, requiring convincing legal arguments for removal. It is also important to demonstrate that the company or individual is no longer associated with reputational risks.
Step 3. Combatting false media sources
Many databases use media publications as a source of information, which complicates control over content. Companies and individuals can use the right to be forgotten, as provided by laws like GDPR in Europe, or interact with editorial teams to correct inaccurate information. For example, under GDPR, an official request can be filed to have data removed, which is an effective tool for protecting reputation.
Step 4. Creating a positive image
Removing negative information is only part of the reputation recovery process. It is also important to actively create a positive image. Participation in initiatives such as charitable activities, environmental programs, or educational projects can significantly improve the perception of a company or individual. Publishing news about achievements, partnerships, and successful initiatives also contributes to building a positive image.
Examples of Successful Work
- Trading Company from Latin America
The company was included in one of the databases due to suspicions of criminal associations. After conducting a legal analysis and providing evidence of false information, the company achieved complete removal from the database by interacting with database operators and providing the necessary evidence to eliminate inaccurate information. Legal support played a key role in this process, ensuring proper representation of the company’s interests and the correct filing of all requests.
- International Consultant
An individual ended up in a database due to an erroneous association with regulatory violations. As a result of legal protection and media work, they were able to restore their reputation and regain access to banking services. After this, the consultant began actively participating in educational initiatives, sharing knowledge and experience with colleagues, which helped improve their professional image and strengthen trust from partners.
Data removal from international databases is a complex but achievable process. It requires legal expertise, strategic planning, and active work on reputation management. Companies and individuals must be prepared for long-term efforts to manage their image in order to successfully restore their reputation and regain lost opportunities.