Are background checks making you anxious? You are not alone!
IT Governance's analysis revealed that there have been 3,478 officially disclosed security incidents and 299,368,075 known breaches of records in March 2024.
Background Alert and other data brokers collect and sell your personal information.
This guide will show you how to remove your information from Background Alert and go over some of the security concerns surrounding data brokers.
Background Alert is a data broker service that collects public information about people and offers reports that include facts such as addresses, phone numbers, and previous employment. It also offers a background check service, in which assembled data is used to screen someone for purposes such as renting an apartment or applying for a job.
Background Alert collects your data in the following forms:
They gather and utilize personal information about you to answer your inquiry about products and services available through our website and to tell you about products, services, and other opportunities that we believe will be of interest to you.
You provided information on getting financial products or services such as mortgage loans (your full name, phone number, self-assessed property value, and social security number).
We occasionally share the information we collect with organizations that host certain services for us, such as marketing distribution services.
If you want to remove your information from Background Alert manually, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit https://backgroundalert.com/optout/. Once there, enter your first and last name, along with the state. Hit the "Search" button.
Step 2: Once the search results appear, select the one you want. Hit "That's Me".
Step 3: In the next step, provide the email address. Click "NEXT".
Step 4: You will need to upload an image of your ID for confirmation. Click "NEXT" to proceed.
Step 5: Your request has been submitted.
Step 6: An email confirmation will be sent to you once your request has been approved. And you’re done!
Background Alert is an online service that compiles public records and information about individuals. While it can provide background information, its legitimacy can vary. Before using its services, it's recommended that you thoroughly research reviews, ratings, and the credibility of its website.
Unfortunately, it's not offered for free, and the fees differ depending on the plan you select. For more details, please visit their official website at backgroundalert.com.
Once your opt-out information is verified, the process typically concludes within 7 days.
Yes, using services like Background Alert raises privacy concerns, as they collect and compile public information about individuals. Before using such services, consider the potential impact on your personal privacy and whether the benefits outweigh the risks. Always review their privacy policies and terms of use.
You can remove yourself from Background Alert manually by following the instructions in this post.
However, for a more complete and faster solution, consider privacy services such as PurePrivacy, which can automate data removal across different data brokers.
Remember that taking proactive actions to control your online presence allows you to protect your sensitive information and enjoy more peace of mind.