Any Who Opt Out: Personal Information Removal Guide 2024

Is your email filled with spam, and your phone keeps getting flooded with unwanted calls? Are you concerned about the security of your personal information floating in the wide web space? 

In the last year, 53% of organizations have experienced a data breach involving third parties.

In this data-saturated world, "Opt-Out of AnyWho" provides a lifeline. We’ll discuss the opt-out process of AnyWho to get your information removed from their database.

Key Takeaways

• AnyWho.com provides free White Pages and reverse phone lookup services for individuals and businesses.
• AnyWho gathers data from various sources, including user-contributed information and public records.
• Opting out of AnyWho is advisable due to cybersecurity and privacy concerns, as personal information may expose individuals to cyber threats and unwanted sales contacts.
• To opt-out, search for your profile, complete a removal request form, and check regularly to maintain the removal as the platform updates frequently.
• Discover how PurePrivacy enhances online privacy by removing your data from broker databases.

What is AnyWho?

AnyWho is advertised as a "people search" tool that allows people to look up the name of someone they meet online or in person. AnyWho collects information and republishes it for users. Intelius, a large data broker, now operates AnyWho. 

Data broker websites build advanced networks; Intelius is a member of the PeopleConnect family, which also includes TruthFinder, InstantCheckmate, and USSearch.

Data mining firms such as AnyWho and Intelius supply this information for free or at a low cost.

How Does AnyWho Get Your Information?

AnyWho collects information from three main sources:

Public Records

If you've ever applied for a business license, marriage license, or driver's license, or interacted with a government entity in any manner, your information has been gathered and shared. 

These are known as public records, and most government entities are compelled by law to make them available to everyone. In many circumstances, criminal and judicial records are accessible to anyone who wants to look.

Other Data Broker Websites

Data brokers develop intricate webs and frequently share information. This information may be freely shared or sold to other data brokers.

Third-Party Information Sources

Data brokers may access almost any online directory and information source, including social media profiles, personal and professional websites, public discussion boards, and chat rooms. Each of these sources may have the information the data broker requires to generate a full record of an individual.

How to Opt-Out of AnyWho Manually

Step 1: Scroll to the bottom end of the page. Click on "Do not sell my info".

Step 2: Enter the data privacy center. Click on "VIEW PUBLIC DATA TOOLS."

Step 3: Suppress your public data. Click on "MANAGE MY SUPPRESSION TOOLS".

Step 4: Add in your email address. Click on "I agree". Hit "Continue" to proceed.

Step 5: Check your inbox and verify the email to proceed.

Step 6: Fill in the date of birth. Check the verify box. Hit "Continue".

Step 7: Fill in your first, middle, and last name. Click the verification box. Hit "Continue".

Step 8: You'll have to enter the verification code sent to your email to proceed. Once verified, you can move along with suppressing your information.

Step 9: Select the option "Suppressed" from the given choice. Click "Save". Your information will be removed within 30 days.

Protect Your Information from Data Brokers 

PurePrivacy's data erasure service helps you regain control. It automates the process of requesting that over 200 data brokers erase your personal information, allowing you to browse with confidence while reducing the chance of your information being exploited.

Here's how PurePrivacy can assist:

View Removal Requests

Its user-friendly interface allows you to easily track the progress of your data erasure requests. Simply switch between the "Completed" and "In-Progress" pages to see the progress of your requests.

View Data Broker Details

For your convenience, data brokers have been divided into four main categories: marketing, people search, recruitment, and risk reduction. Easily access and examine the information stored by each data broker in these areas.

Data Brokers Scan

It allows you to enter basic Personally Identifiable Information (PII), such as email, first and last name, nationality, and city. A risk scan is performed on their profile to identify any exposed data and assess the danger connected with information gathered by brokers.

Steps to Opt-Out Using PurePrivacy

Manual AnyWho Opt-Out Methods Vs. PurePrivacy 

Make a Wise Security Decision!

Overall, the decision to opt out is personal. While participation may seem convenient and efficient, it is critical to respect individuals' rights to privacy, control, or other options. 

Finding the right balance between growth and individual choice is a constant struggle, and providing a feasible opt-out option is critical to creating trust and acceptance.