If removed following an official order
If the content you have provided online has been removed or blocked following an order from a competent authority, the hosting service provider has to inform you of this, unless the competent authority decides otherwise.
As a user, you have the right to:
- either ask why your content was removed or blocked and what rights you have to contest the removal order;
- or request a copy of the removal order.
If removed without an official order
If a hosting service provider unjustly removes or blocks your content on the basis of its own measures (and not following an official order), you have the right to lodge a complaint with the provider itself.
How does this work?
- the hosting service provider must provide an effective and accessible system that allows you to lodge a complaint and request that your content be restored or made accessible again.
- any complaint should be investigated promptly. The hosting service provider must inform you about the outcome of the complaint within two weeks.
- if the removal or blocking was found to be unjust, the content should be restored without delay.
In the case of removal or blocking of content, the hosting service provider should explain to the user who provided the content why this measure was taken. So if your content has been removed or blocked, you should first contact the hosting service provider.
If the provider fails to comply with these obligations, you can file a complaint with the BIPT.