Opt-Out Directory
Step-by-step instructions to remove your information from major data brokers and people search sites.
How to Opt Out
Removing your information from data brokers is tedious but worthwhile. Each site has different processes. Expect to spend several hours total. Many require verification of identity.
Before You Start
Gather Information
Current and past addresses, phone numbers, email addresses. You'll need these to find your records.
Use Dedicated Email
Create email just for opt-outs. Keeps confirmations organized. Protects main email from sharing.
Document Everything
Screenshot submissions. Save confirmation emails. Track dates. Useful if data reappears.
Major People Search Sites
Whitepages
Website: whitepages.com
Opt-Out: whitepages.com/suppression-requests
Process: Search for your record → Copy URL → Visit opt-out page → Paste URL → Verify email → Confirm removal
Time: 24-48 hours
Spokeo
Website: spokeo.com
Opt-Out: spokeo.com/optout
Process: Search for yourself → Copy URL → Submit opt-out form → Verify email → Wait for removal
Time: 7 days
PeopleFinder
Website: peoplefinder.com
Opt-Out: peoplefinder.com/optout
Process: Find your listing → Note the URL → Complete opt-out form → Email verification required
Time: 72 hours
BeenVerified
Website: beenverified.com
Opt-Out: beenverified.com/app/optout/search
Process: Search for record → Submit opt-out → Requires phone verification → Allow 24 hours
Time: 24 hours
Intelius
Website: intelius.com
Opt-Out: intelius.com/optout
Process: Search and find listing → Copy URL → Fill opt-out form → Verify email → 7-10 day processing
Time: 7-10 days
Major Data Brokers
Acxiom
Opt-Out: acxiom.com/about-acxiom/privacy/opt-out
Process: Create account → Request data report → Review data → Submit opt-out request
Note: One of the largest. Worth the effort.
Experian Marketing
Opt-Out: experian.com/privacy/opt-out
Process: Call 1-888-5OPTOUT (1-888-567-8688) → Automated system → Provide info → Opt-out from pre-approved credit offers
Note: Also affects TransUnion, Equifax, Innovis
Oracle Data Cloud
Opt-Out: datacloudoptout.oracle.com
Process: Submit opt-out form → Provide email → Confirm via email
Note: Formerly BlueKai. Major tracking company.
Automated Opt-Out Services
DeleteMe
$129/year. Removes from 30+ sites. Quarterly reports. Monitors and removes reappearing data. Most comprehensive.
Incogni
$12.99/month. Automated removal requests. Ongoing monitoring. 180+ data brokers covered.
OneRep
$8.33/month annual. 196+ broker sites. Regular scans. Cheaper than competitors.
Privacy Bee
Free tier available. Basic removal services. Paid tiers add features. Good budget option.
Social Media Privacy
- Facebook: Settings → Privacy → Limit past posts to friends only
- Instagram: Settings → Privacy → Make account private
- Twitter: Settings → Privacy and safety → Protect tweets
- LinkedIn: Settings → Visibility → Limit who can see connections and activity
- TikTok: Settings → Privacy → Private account
Google & Search Engines
Google Removals
For EU residents: Google's "Right to be Forgotten" form. Non-EU: Limited removal for sensitive personal info.
Bing Removals
Microsoft's content removal tool for personal information appearing in search results.
Maintenance
- Data often reappears after 6-12 months
- Set calendar reminder to re-check quarterly
- New data brokers emerge constantly
- Consider paid service for ongoing monitoring
- Google yourself monthly to catch new appearances
Tips for Success
Be Patient
Processing takes days to weeks. Follow up if no confirmation received. Persistence pays off.
Search All Variations
Check different name spellings, nicknames, maiden names. Multiple listings common.
Check All Addresses
Current and previous addresses may have separate listings. Each needs individual opt-out.
Use Incognito Mode
Prevents sites from tracking your searches. Cleaner results. Avoids personalization.