Instant Checkmate Opt Out: Personal Information Removal Guide 2024

By Unzila Siddique

Unzila Siddique

Hi, I'm a part time content writer and full time SEO dabbling in the world of cybersecurity, one step at a time.

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2 February 2024
13 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

Instant Checkmate is a massive people search site that conducts a staggering 1.5 billion searches, extracting intricate details from public records with a mere click. However, Instant Checkmate, despite its might, harbors a vulnerability as a data broker, exposed to the threats of cyberattacks and breaches. In 2022 alone, 15 million data records globally were compromised. But you can reclaim control of your digital identity by opting out of data brokers like Instant Checkmate.

Key Takeaways

Instant Checkmate compiles extensive US individual records through subscription-based searches.
It conducts around 1.5 billion searches, extracting diverse information from public records.
As a data broker, it faces cybersecurity risks amidst the global surge in data breaches.
Individuals can enhance privacy by opting out of data broker sites like Instant Checkmate.
This article guides opting out for improved online privacy.
Explore PurePrivacy for strengthened online privacy through data broker database removal.

What is Instant Checkmate?

Instant Checkmate is an online public records search service that provides access to a vast database of information about individuals in the United States. It is not a traditional background check service, but rather a tool that allows users to search for information on people by entering their credentials like name, phone number, email address, or other personal details.

What is the scope of Instant Checkmate’s information?

Instant Checkmate is an online public records search where users can access details like criminal records, including arrests, convictions, and court records, as well as contact information such as addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

The service may also provide links to social media profiles, public records like marriage and divorce records, property ownership information, and financial data like bankruptcies and liens.

People in the US still struggle to understand the nature and scope of the data collected about them, according to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, and only 9% believe they have “a lot of control” over the data that is collected about them. Still, the vast majority, 74%, say it is very important to them to be in control of who can get that information.

Incorporating opting-out methods: Essential for data privacy

Incorporating opt-out methods, especially in services like Instant Checkmate, is essentiall for safeguarding data privacy. It empowers individuals to control their personal information, minimize the risk of privacy breaches, and comply with legal rights and regulations. Opting out also helps manage online reputations and ensures responsible data handling, making it a fundamental aspect of data privacy.

Method 1: Your privacy ally: Instant Checkmate has you covered

Step 1: Visit the website

Go to the official website of InstantCheckmate.
Scroll through the bottom end and click "DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION".

Screenshot of the bottom end of Instant Checkmate's website where it gives your the option of "Do not sell or share my personal information"

Step 2: Enter the data privacy center

Click on "VIEW PUBLIC DATA TOOLS"

Screenshot of data privacy center where you need to opt for "VIEW PUBLIC DATA TOOLS"

Step 3: Suppress your public data

Click on "MANAGE MY SUPPRESSION RULES".

Screenshot of the continuation of the same form where you need to opt for "MANAGE MY SUPPRESSION RULES"

Step 4: Enter your email

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

Screenshot of the first step of suppressing your data by entering your email and verifying you've agreed to the terms

Step 5: Verify email

Check your inbox and to verify the email to proceed.

Screenshot of email verification via PeopleConnect for Instant Checkmate

Step 6: Enter the date of birth

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

Screenshot of specifying your date of birth to proceed with the opt out

Step 7: Enter your legal name

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

Screenshot of the same form with legal name to proceed with the opt out

Screenshot of matching records for your view

Step 8: Verification code required

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

Step 9: Choose your desired behavior

Select the option "Suppressed" from the given choice.
Click "Save".
And your information will be removed within 30 days of receiving the request.

Please Note: Individuals residing outside of the US will need to utilize a VPN service such as PureVPN to access the official TruePeopleSearch webpage.

Duration of this exercise: 10-15 minutes

Method 2: Instant Checkmate privacy escape route with PurePrivacy

PurePrivacy can be a powerful ally in the quest for data removal and maintaining control over your personal information as the pervasive tracking and logging of online activities pose a significant risk to users' privacy. Here's how PurePrivacy can assist:

PurePrivacy's Remove My Data feature combats this threat. Users provide basic details, and PurePrivacy sends data removal requests to 130+ data brokers. While verification isn't guaranteed, it confirms deletion from publicly accessible databases.
PurePrivacy offers a dashboard displaying data brokers and their collected
information, with risk scores. Users can track removal requests, communicate with brokers, and receive weekly reports. Removal time varies, typically 30-60 days.

Steps to Opt-Out Using PurePrivacy

From web app:

● Visit the PurePrivacy website.

● Sign up to PurePrivacy.

● Create your profile.

● Provide us your consent.

● Once you allow authorization the opt out process will begin. Pure Privacy automatically starts the monitoring & opt out process for your information. First ask them if they have your data or not. If they have simply opted out of data on behalf of you. This all process was done within a short period of time. Also Send a weekly email summary that combines and summarizes the activity related to removing data.

From Mobile App (Android & IOS):

● Launch PurePrivacy mobile app.

● Signup or Login to your account.

● Enter Details to create your profile.

● Allow us your express authorization to start the opt out process.

● Once you allow authorization the opt out process will begin. Pure Privacy automatically starts the monitoring & opt out process for your information. First ask them if they have your data or not. If they have simply opted out of data on behalf of you. This all process was done within a short period of time. Also Send a weekly email summary that combines and summarizes the activity related to removing data.

Comparing privacy solutions: Instant Checkmate vs. PurePrivacy

Opting out manually from Instant Checkmate

Go to instantcheckmate.com
Look up the person by entering his/her details.
There will be multiple approvals before they can proceed with your request.
Upon submission, Instant Checkmate will ask for payment since it’s not a free service to download the complete report.

PurePrivacy

Launch the app (10 seconds)
Create a profile (10 seconds)
Give consent (10 seconds)

Third-party data companies can compile numerous attributes for billions of individuals by purchasing or obtaining public records through web scraping. Previously, businesses would gather selective advertisement audiences through purchased magazine subscriber lists; now they can effortlessly determine personal information based on smartphone and credit card usage like imminent pregnancy or emotional breakups. These corporations are even able to retrieve knowledge such as extroversion level, medication use patterns, physical location history, and discreet behaviors related directly to mobile app activity in today's world.

Your personal information can be leveraged to generate virtual profiles of you that may contain inaccuracies and are often used for targeted advertising, risk analysis of your lifestyle choices, or employment eligibility screening. Unfortunately, these risks are not readily apparent like the companies collecting this data themselves. In addition to the hazards associated with gathering and maintaining vast amounts of private data, unreliable consumer profiles have been known to lead towards discriminatory practices based on race or income - a modern-day digital application similar in effect to past redlining policies.

Instant Checkmate is an online service that gathers publicly accessible data on individuals and offers detailed reports containing contact details, criminal records, and more. To safeguard their privacy, people can use the PurePrivacy opt-out system to remove their information from being published on the site by visiting Instant Checkmate's website for assistance filling out a request form in its Privacy section. However, it should be known that although this method eliminates personal information from Instant Checkmate's database, similar platforms or public databases' accessibility might still show them up. As the effectiveness of opting out may vary over time along with terms and conditions updates at regular intervals reviewing Instant Checkmates’ confidentiality policy proves important regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Checkmate data breach?

Criminals successfully obtained two CSV files totaling 2.9 GB in size, compromising data from over 11.9 million Instant Checkmate users, over 8.2 million TruthFinder users, and 4,625 TruthFinder International users. The exposed information includes individuals' first and last names, email addresses, phone numbers, and hashed passwords.
How frequently should I check if my information reappears on Instant Checkmate?

Check your information on Instant Checkmate based on your comfort level and personal circumstances. Consider monitoring after-life changes or security incidents. Regular checks, perhaps every few weeks or months, can help ensure the security of your personal data. Utilize notification services if available.
Is there a specific time frame for how long Instant Checkmate removes my data after I opt out?

The timeframe for Instant Checkmate to remove your data after opting out varies, typically taking a few weeks. For precise details, refer to Instant Checkmate's official documentation or contact their customer support directly.
Will opting out affect my ability to access Instant Checkmate in the future?

Opting out from Instant Checkmate generally does not affect your future access to their platform. It mainly restricts the public visibility of your personal information without hindering the legitimate use of its services. For precise details, refer to Instant Checkmate's official documentation or contact their customer support.
Is Instant Checkmate legit?

Instant Checkmate is a legitimate online background check service that provides access to public records and information about individuals. It allows users to search for information such as criminal records, arrest records, contact details, and more, on people in the US.
Is Instant Checkmate free?

Instant Checkmate is not a free service. It operates on a subscription-based model, which means users need to pay a fee to access its background check reports and services. While they may offer limited or trial access for free, the full range of information and features typically requires a paid subscription.

The pricing structure may vary depending on the subscription plan you choose and the duration of your subscription.

Conclusion

Instant Checkmate is an online public records search service that compiles publicly available information on individuals, offering detailed reports of an individual. Concerned about privacy, individuals can opt out from the platform through the PurePrivacy opt-out process. This typically involves visiting the Instant Checkmate website, navigating to the privacy section, and filling out a form to request the removal of data with the assistance of PurePrivacy. However, it's important to note that while this process can remove information from Instant Checkmate, data may still be accessible on other similar platforms or public databases. The effectiveness and terms of the opt-out process may change over time, so individuals should periodically review Instant Checkmate's privacy policies for the latest information.

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With PurePrivacy, make sure all your personal data remains safe without a hassle!

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References

https://www.fastcompany.com/90310803/here-are-the-data-brokers-quietly-buying-and-selling-your-personal-information

More Data Brokers You Should Opt Out Of:

If you decide to completely wipe out from online databroker, This is procedure is not enough. You also need to remove your information from other data brokers website like: