Key Takeaways
- Data Brokers scrape public records to build a profile on you.
- They sell this data (address, phone, family tree) to anyone.
- You can request removal, but it is manual and tedious.
- Automated services (like DeleteMe or Incogni) can do it for you.
Search your own name. Likely, you will find your current home address and phone number on sites like Whitepages, Spokeo, or BeenVerified. Here implies how to fix it.
Who are Data Brokers?
They are companies that exist solely to collect and sell consumer data. They scrape court records, social media, and voting registries. It is completely legal in the US.
The Removal Process (Manual Way)
You can opt-out of these sites for free, but they make it hard.
- WhitePages: Go to the footer, click "Do Not Sell My Info", paste your profile URL, and verify via phone call.
- Spokeo: Search your name, click the listing, copy the URL, and go to the opt-out page.
- BeenVerified: Has an email form. Takes 48 hours.
Note: There are over 100 of these brokers. Doing this manually takes dozens of hours.
The "Zombie" Profile
Even after you delete your record, they often re-scrape it a few months later. You have to check back constantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I delete myself from Google?
You cannot delete the search results directly, but if you remove the source (the broker site), Google will eventually stop showing it. You can speed this up using Google's "Outdated Content Removal Tool".
Is it worth paying for removal services?
If you value your time, yes. Services like Incogni or DeleteMe automate the process and constantly re-check for you. If you have stalkers or high privacy needs, it is essential.
Want privacy online?
Read Privacy Guide