How to Remove Your Personal Data From People Search Websites

Why Remove Information from People Search Sites?

People search websites like Whitepages, Spokeo, and BeenVerified aggregate personal data from public records and online sources, exposing: - Full names and aliases - Current/past addresses - Phone numbers - Age and birthdates - Family members' information - Court records

This data fuels spam calls, identity theft scams, and physical security risks. A 2023 Pew Research study shows 79% of Americans feel they've lost control over their personal data collection.

Step 1: Identify Problematic Websites

Top data brokers to check: 1. Whitepages (300M+ records) 2. Spokeo (12B data points) 3. BeenVerified (comprehensive background checks) 4. Intelius (address history reports) 5. PeopleFinders (arrest records access)

Use Google search operators:

"your name" site:whitepages.com
"your phone" site:peoplefinders.com

Step 2: Opt-Out Procedures

Whitepages Removal

1. Visit Whitepages Opt-Out Page
2. Search for your listing
3. Click "Remove this record"
4. Verify via confirmation email

Spokeo Removal

1. Find your profile at Spokeo.com
2. Copy profile URL
3. Submit removal request through Spokeo Opt-Out Form
4. Provide government-issued ID verification

Pro Tip: Most sites require: - Profile URLs - Email verification - Photo ID submissions (blur sensitive numbers)

Step 3: Automated Removal Services

For bulk removal across 50+ sites:

Caution: Free "data removal" tools often sell your data to new brokers.

Step 4: Prevent Future Exposure

1. Google Results Removal

   • Use Google Remove Outdated Content Tool
   • File legal DMCA takedowns for sensitive info

2. Browser Privacy Settings

   • Enable DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials
   • Use uBlock Origin ad blocker
   • Activate Firefox Total Cookie Protection

3. Proactive Measures

- Create email aliases with SimpleLogin.io
- Use virtual phone numbers via Google Voice
- Freeze credit reports at Equifax/Experian/TransUnion

Legal Protections

CCPA (California)

• Right to delete personal data
• Mandates 45-day compliance window

GDPR (EU Residents)

• Article 17 "Right to Erasure"
• Applies to EU citizen data worldwide

Vermont Data Broker Law

• Requires annual registration
• $50 fine per day for non-compliance

FAQ

Q: How long does removal take? A: 7-45 days depending on company responsiveness

Q: Is removal permanent? A: No - resubmit requests every 6-12 months

Q: Can I remove court records? A: Only through expungement petitions (consult attorney)

Q: Do removal services work? A: Top-tier services achieve 85-92% success rates based on 2023 Consumer Reports testing

Final Checklist

✅ Audit 10 major data brokers ✅ Submit individual opt-outs ✅ Monitor with Google Alerts ✅ Enable two-factor authentication ✅ Schedule annual privacy reviews

Need professional help? Contact the Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) for legal resources.