How to get rid of people-finder websites ‘ information

People-finder websites: what are they?

People-finder websites gather and market personal data reports. These websites gather data from publicly accessible sources like online forums, public records, data brokers, court documents, and social media profiles. Name, email address, and phone number are just a few of the personal information that may be included in these data reports. Additionally, they might contain private details like a person’s home address, family members ‘ names, and occasionally even Social Security numbers.

Anyone who is interested can access your data if it appears on any of these websites. While the majority of people-search websites demand a paid subscription, this only gives users the option to purchase and use your information however they see fit. It is crucial to remove your data from people-finder websites for this reason. Identity theft, targeted phishing attacks, and other online threats will be less likely if this is done.

How can I find out if my information is on People-Finder sites?

Check what personal information these websites may have before you start a time-consuming quest to remove your information from people-search sites.

Start by conducting quick Google, Bing, or Yahoo research. Look for alterations to your name, initials, email address, and other contact details that could be used to identify you. Because search engines record information, we advise against looking up sensitive data like your Social Security number. You could be harmed by hackers, con artists, and identity thieves if your device or search engine are compromised.

You can get a general idea of the information about you that people-finder websites may have by looking up your search results. You might not be able to access your data unless you sign up as a paid member because the majority of websites charge for information. Additionally, search results might indicate that some websites are using your information to entice you. You might learn that the site’s claim was untrue after paying.

How to get rid of people’s search engine data

Differentpeople-finder websites have different procedures for handling opt-out requests. To remove your information from websites like Spokeo, MyLife, and BeenVerified, refer to the instructions provided below.

1. Make a list of people-search websites that, based on the above-described search, have your information first.
2. Then, search for your information on each people-finder website. To ensure that the profile refers to you and not someone else, you might need to enter more specific information, such as your state or city, because users on the site may share your name.
3. Review the opt-out policy for the website now. On each people’s search site, the opt-out procedure is different. Keep in mind that depending on the site’s policy and your region, the time it takes to remove data may also vary.
4. Finally, go to the opt-out page and make your request there. If you are using Spokeo, you might need to check the FAQ page of the website or our opt-out guide to make sure you do it correctly. You might be asked to confirm your identity on some websites. They might ask for your ID or send you a confirmation link. If your email account is compromised, sending a copy of your identification documents could put your information at risk. If the website does request your ID, follow up with your removal request or send an email to the site to request a different method of identity verification. These websites should then provide a different way to remove your data and verify your identity.
5. To submit opt-out requests for each people’s search site using your data, repeat steps 1 through 4.

Why should I stop using people-finder websites with my information?

Serious privacy and digital security risks are present on people-search websites. You should remove your information from people-search websites for the reasons listed below.

Attacks that are targeted

Cybercriminals may launch targeted attacks using the information found on people-search websites. Criminals can defraud you or your loved ones using social engineering strategies if they have access to information from people-search websites. Cybercriminals can create a reliable-looking email that is tailored to you or your family members using the information gleaned from social media sites. The recipient may send money to con artists requesting loans or download a malware-containing attachment. Additionally, identity theft may occur if your driver’s license, Social Security number, or identification number are listed on data broker websites.

digital footprint

Your digital footprint is also kept clean by removing your data from people-search websites. Your online activity and presence leave behind traceable data known as your digital footprint. It serves as the foundation for targeted advertisements and might inspire targeted cyberattacks. Although controlling your online presence is preferable, it will always leave traceable data.

How can I protect the privacy of my online personal information?

People-search websites regularly gather information from websites that host public records and social media. In a few weeks or months, you will need to repeat the removal procedure if your information is still on your social media profiles and other publicly accessible sources. Here are some recommendations for protecting your online personal information.

Conduct recurring searches

Use search engines to periodically look up your information. If people or search sites have your information again, search results will show it.

Examine your social media profiles.

Review the privacy settings on your social media accounts. If you provide your phone number, marital status, home address, email address or any other information that search engines typically gather, people-search sites will scrape these details. If your account is public, watch what you share as well. You might receive information you want to keep private from a daily post. Check out our recommendations for protecting your social media profiles.

Consider what you share.

On public forums and other similar platforms, take care with what you post online. Similar to social media, seemingly innocent posts can provide information that aids criminals in their endeavors. For instance, a hacker planning to launch an attack or try fraud might find it useful to know even where you work. Rethink who can see what you share as a result.

Get off the internet, please.

Eliminating yourself from the internet is another way to lessen the dangers associated with having an online presence. Although it may seem like a drastic step, doing so means leaving no digital footprint behind. People-search websites wo n’t have anything to scrape as a result. You can use our tutorial on how to remove yourself from the internet if that’s your preference.

Use a tool to remove personal data.

Personal data removal software like Incogni is another option. 180+ data brokers receive requests for information removal from Incogni. You can significantly cut down on your efforts to keep your information private with the aid of this tool. To improve your privacy game even more, think about the Incogni-NordVPN bundle deal.