Unmask 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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12 February 2024
12 mins read

Table of Content

Table of Contents

Imagine a place called UnMask.com where your details are on display for anyone to see - phone numbers, past addresses, family connections, legal history, possessions, work history- everything about you in one spot, like your life story out in the open.

Key Takeaways

UnMask is a platform or service that gathers and aggregates information from various public sources and databases to create detailed profiles of individuals.
These profiles may include personal details such as names, addresses, phone numbers, employment history, educational background, etc.
UnMask essentially provides a way for users to search for and access information about people based on their name and other identifying factors. It's often used for purposes like reconnecting with lost contacts, conducting background checks, and gathering information about individuals for various reasons.
Explore the UnMask's opt-out process to regain control over your information and decrease interactions with data brokers.
Uncover how PurePrivacy offers a streamlined remedy to remove your data from data broker databases, ensuring heightened online privacy.

The UnMask intrigue: What's on display?

UnMask.com isn't just sitting there; it's like a show. You can search for people, find phone numbers, and explore addresses. But if having your info out there isn't your thing, you've got a move to make.

Privacy game: Stepping out of the spotlight

Think of it as a privacy game. You step out of the spotlight into the backstage area. To disappear from UnMask's view, follow a simple routine. Fill out a form, as easy as leaving a note on the fridge. This note is your ticket to freedom.

Sending the email: Your secret weapon

The highlight? Sending an email. Just type "I want out" and hit send - the grand finale, like a movie explosion without the noise.

Crafting your story of control

With each keystroke, you're crafting a story of control. You're like a video game hero, facing challenges and showing who's boss. Filling out that form and sending that email - your secret weapon. They say you're serious, and you're taking charge.

You are the legend

In the UnMask.com saga, you're the legend. Clicks and messages become louder than superhero punches. You're not just a face on the internet; you're the commander of your story, keeping your info safe from prying eyes.

Disclaimer: While this story is fictional, it's inspired by real digital privacy and data brokerage trends.

UnMask's data collection: From roots to risks

UnMask, a people search platform, provides diverse information about individuals. They collect this from public records and open sources, making personal and confidential information accessible to millions of people with ease.

Mastering online privacy: Taking control of data brokers

Ensuring the security of your online privacy involves understanding the tactics employed by data brokers. Safeguard your digital presence by adhering to these steps:

Grasp data broker techniques: Dedicate time to comprehend their operations, the data they accumulate, and their utilization methods. Stay informed about privacy regulations to stay up to date.
Review privacy policies: Thoroughly examine terms of service and app particulars. Be cautious of any data sharing with third parties, including data brokers.
Protect personal information: Exercise caution with private data online, particularly on social media platforms. Regularly update privacy settings.
Leverage opt-out options: Investigate whether data brokers provide opt-out solutions. Whenever possible, eliminate your information from their records.
Maintain vigilance: Constantly monitor your online accounts and financial matters. Scrutinize credit reports for accuracy and swiftly detect any unauthorized access.
Spread awareness: Share insights about online privacy with friends, family, and colleagues. Inspire them to join the effort in safeguarding their data as well.

The world of data collection: Why your privacy matters?

In a study conducted by Pew Research, it was discovered that 79 percent of Americans expressed worry over the extent of data collection by companies, and 81 percent believed that the potential drawbacks of data collection were more significant than the potential advantages.

Opting-out methods: Taking a stand against data brokers

Method 1: UnMask opt-out journey - Empower privacy choices

Step 1: Log on to the official website

Visit the UnMask website.
Scroll through the farther end of the page.
Click on "DO NOT SUBMIT MY INFORMATION".

Screenshot of UnMask's bottom end of the webpage where you select the option "DO NOT SELL OR SHARE MY PERSONAL INFORMATION"

Step 2: Begin your search

Enter your name, city and state.
Solve the CAPTCHA.
Hit "Submit".

Screenshot of beginning your search on UnMask with first and last name, city and state

Screenshot of verifying you're human and performing the search

Step 3: Choose record

Once you've found the record, select the one you want to remove.
Hit "DELETE RECORD".

Screenshot of choosing the record that's displayed on UnMask's webpage

Step 4: Submit your request

Enter your information, name and last name along with your email address.
Verify you're human.
Hit "Submit".

Screenshot of submitting your opt out request on UnMask

Step 5: Check your email

UnMask will email you the request.
Click on "Confirm Request".
A new link will open verifying you the update.
And you're done!

Screenshot of the request UnMask will send in your email

Screenshot for confirmation of request via email

Step 6: Opt-out request confirmed

Screenshot of confirmation of request post opt out on UnMask

Duration of this exercise: 7 - 10 minutes

Please note: You’ll have to use a premium VPN service like PureVPN to access the UnMask website.

Method 2: Streamlining UnMask's opt-out via PurePrivacy

Screenshot of PurePrivacy as a one-stop solution

PurePrivacy, an innovative online service, simplifies the process of opting out of data broker databases, making it a powerful tool for individuals seeking to protect their digital privacy. In contrast to traditional manual opt-out methods, PurePrivacy saves significant time and effort by automating opt-out requests to multiple data brokers. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive coverage, and commitment to staying updated ensure users can efficiently and effectively reclaim control over their personal information.

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.

Protecting your personal information: UnMask vs. PurePrivacy compared

Opting out manually from UnMask

Visit UnMask's official page www.unmask.com.
At the page's bottom, select the link labeled "Opt-Out of Information Sale."
Provide your first and last names, followed by your city and state. Solve the captcha and then press the search button.
Once you locate your record, select the button that says "Delete Record."
Provide your complete name and the email address associated with your opt-out preferences. Solve the captcha, then proceed by clicking the "Submit" button.
Review your inbox for the confirmation email and subsequently select the "Confirm Request" button (or copy and paste it into your browser.
Congratulations! Your removal request has been submitted successfully.

PurePrivacy

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

Despite assertions from data brokers regarding the anonymization of the data they vend, studies have revealed that supposedly anonymous datasets are remarkably susceptible to re-identification. A mere 15 attributes (such as age, gender, or marital status) are sufficient to re-identify an individual with a 99.98 percent accuracy rate. A striking instance occurred recently when a priest resigned following his identification by The Pillar, a Catholic news website, which used Grindr location data purchased from a broker.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I search for my information on UnMask?

Visit the UnMask opt-out page at https://unmask.com/opt-out and provide your first name, last name, and city-state location. After confirming the captcha, proceed by clicking on the "Search" button.
Is the UnMask website helpful?

Yes, it is. The website provides a people locator service, coupled with precise and safe reverse address and phone number lookup features. Whether it's for conducting a background investigation, identifying individuals in situations of harassment, or reuniting with a former friend or family member, UnMask is proficient in assisting individuals with their information retrieval needs.
Does UnMask get my info again after the opt-out request?

No, once you've submitted an opt-out request to UnMask, they should not obtain your information again. The purpose of an opt-out request is to have your data removed or restricted from their records and future collection.
How long does it take to opt out of UnMask?

The time it takes to opt out of UnMask varies. It generally depends on factors like system efficiency and request volume. After submitting your opt-out request, you may receive a confirmation with details on processing time. For specific information, contact UnMask's customer support.
Why is online privacy important?

Online privacy is crucial because personal information is easily accessible on platforms like UnMask.com. Protecting your privacy helps prevent your data from being misused, especially for targeted advertising or other potentially harmful purposes.

Conclusion

The article discusses UnMask.com, a platform displaying personal information from public records. Users can search for details like phone numbers, addresses, and criminal records. Opting out involves filling out a form and sending an email. It highlights safeguarding privacy online, using services like PurePrivacy to remove data from broker databases. The risks of data collection and re-identification are noted. The focus is on regaining control over personal information in the digital age.