By Charlie Osborne
Copyright zdnet
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ZDNET’s key takeaways
Whitepages lets anyone find your personal details online.You can request to remove your data using the opt-out form.Data removal services can handle ongoing opt-out requests.
Whitepages is one of the most well-known online repositories of US resident data.
Since its inception in 1997, the organization — which calls itself a US online phone book and address directory — has recorded names, contact information, public criminal records, and property data. To date, Whitepages claims to have information relating to more than 250 million people nationwide.
Also: 5 simple ways to regain your data privacy online – starting today
If you’ve ever searched for yourself on this website by submitting your name, home address, or phone number, you might have found a record. While Whitepages claims the service is designed to help its customers “stay connected, protected, and make informed decisions,” these records can be used for spamming individuals, cold calling, robocalling, and more nefarious purposes.
If you’re wondering how to opt out and remove your information from Whitepages, follow the steps below.
How to remove yourself from Whitepages
Whitepages is restricted in what it will show you for free. But you should be able to examine some records that may indicate it is your profile. Some public datasets will be available, revealing approximate ages, names, locations, email addresses, and potentially who the person is related to — as well as any public criminal records.
Also: How to delete your 23andMe data ASAP (and why you should)
You can also reach out to Whitepages directly via customer support or email (privacyrequest@whitepages.com) to submit a request.
In theory, that’s it! You should be told that your data removal request has been received. However, there’s no definitive timeline on when (and if) your record is removed, and there may also be multiple profiles on you that require you to complete the steps above for each record. There are numerous complaints related to removal on the Whitepages Better Business Bureau page.
Also: How to remove your personal info from Google Search – it’s quick and easy
It is also possible that your record will reappear in the future, requiring you to undergo this process again. Furthermore, if you are listed as a family member on someone else’s profile, these familial ties will not be affected.
Our favorite data removal services include Incogni and DeleteMe.
