Yellow Pages Opt Out: Personal Information Removal Guide 2024

  • By Unzila Siddique

    Unzila Siddique

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    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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  • 6 September 2024
  • 9 mins read

Thick phone books like the Yellow Pages may appear old-fashioned in the digital age. However, continuous internet listings and undesired deliveries are frustrating and risk data leakage. 

Over the last ten years, the number of data breaches in the US has skyrocketed, rising from 447 in 2012 to over 1,800 by 2022.

You can opt out of having your information removed from the Yellow Pages and no longer getting physical copies. 

We'll examine manual processes and utilize services like PurePrivacy to make the Yellow Pages opt-out method more efficient.

Key Takeaways

  • Yellow Pages are typically known as phone directories where businesses enlist their numbers. They primarily collect information like your name, social security number, age, email address, etc.
  • The opt-out process with Yellow Pages helps reclaim authority over your information and reduce your interaction with data brokers.
  • Discover how PurePrivacy presents a seamless solution for erasing your data from data broker records.

What is YellowPages.com?

Yellowpages.com is owned by Thryv which is an online business directory established in the United States. It began as the digital replacement for the analog Yellow Pages phone directories in 2012.

While physical listings were the main focus of the original Yellow Pages, you can now locate local businesses, their contact details, reviews, and even specials on Yellowpages.com. Additionally, it provides firms with marketing tools to enhance their internet visibility. 

What Kind of Information Does Yellow Page Contain?

The Yellow Pages provide information to assist individuals find local businesses.

  • Listings include plumbers, electricians, restaurants, dentists, and nearly any other type of service or product provider in your area.
  • Businesses are categorized rather than alphabetically by name. So, if you need a plumber, look under "Plumbers" rather than going through each item.
  • Traditionally, these included telephone numbers. Today's online Yellow Pages may also include website addresses, email addresses, and social media links.

How Many People Still Use Yellow Pages?

The Yellow Pages are no longer as popular as they once were, with many individuals preferring to conduct their searches online. They still have a few users, though. Every month, over 80 million individuals visit the YP.com website or utilize their app, which lists over 20 million companies.

How Does YellowPages Collect Your Information?

The data you give them may vary depending on how you use their app or the YP website. 

Identification/profile information: 

The Yellow Pages require your basic information, including contact information, display name, password, gender, language preferences, date of birth (if applicable), email address, and/or phone number.

Comments/Messages: 

They gather the information you supply when you use their message feature to compose, send, or receive messages. Furthermore, they get the data you submit when you leave reviews or comments on a YP website.

Information about Marketing and Communications:

This data category comprises your communication preferences and your choices for getting marketing materials from YP. 

With your permission, they use your personal information to send you offers and promotions for goods and services that fit your interests.

How to Manually Opt-Out of YellowPages

Follow these simple and easy steps to opt out of YellowPages manually.

Lookup Information

Step 1: Visit the homepage of Yellow Pages Directory Inc. Type in your complete name or business name, along with the matching city and state in the search box. 

Step 2: Then click the magnifying glass icon to start your search.

Step 3: Look through the search results to find your listing at yellowpagesdirectory Select your name or business name to access the profile form.

Step 4: Once your profile page is visible, duplicate the URL of your listing. Next, scroll down to the lower section of your profile details. 

You'll come across the query. “Are you the business owner?” Click the "Edit or Delete Listing" link next to it to start opting out.

Submitting Opt-Out Request

Step 5: Insert the profile URL into the "Permalink" field. Opt for the "Delete – no Free" choice.

State the reason for your opt-out. Complete the 'Contact Details' form and the CAPTCHA. Finally, press the "Send Delete Request" button.

Step 6: A message will appear on the screen confirming the successful submission of your request.

Step 7: Congratulations! Your profile will be taken down within 48 hours. You should still find your profile visible on their website, feel free to send a follow-up request to [email protected] or call them at (212) 918-4474.

Stop Data Brokers from Collecting and Selling Your Private Data

We stop those who track you. Did you know? Data brokers follow & store your every move. Use PurePrivacy to stop them & remove personal information from 200+ data brokers in just $5.83/month. Send Automated Opt-Out Requests and monitor their status within your smartphone or PC!

One app for total privacy. Plus, you can completely block unknown trackers and enhance online privacy of major social media accounts with no manual legwork.

First mobile app to monitor your opt out process within your smartphone with an Extra 42% Off & 31-Day Money-Back Guarantee.

Get Pureprivacy Now Read more about Pureprivacy data removal service

  • Manually opting out of data broker websites requires a lot of time.
  • The manual opt-out process requires completing forms and going to particular websites.
  • Manually identifying each data broker is difficult.
  • There is a different verification process for manual opt-out, and there is no assurance of success.
  • Although opting out manually is free, it takes a lot of effort and time.
  • Faster data removal is offered by PurePrivacy, which sends automated requests to many brokers.
  • Minimal data is entered needed with PurePrivacy's user-friendly interface.
  • Conversely, PurePrivacy searches for and targets a broader variety of brokers.
  • You may monitor your progress and communicate with brokers directly using PurePrivacy.
  • Although PurePrivacy is a premium service, it saves time and effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is YellowPages.com legit?

    Plus

    Yellow Pages is a credible business directory, operating for years, offering business listings, contact details, and more. Although traditional printed directories have waned due to online search and marketing growth, Yellow Pages now emphasizes digital platforms. Verify and cross-reference information when using any online directory

  • How do I contact Yellow Pages directly?

    Plus

    If you have a general question or need assistance utilizing their directory, contact their customer service line at 1-877-909-YELO (9356). Their representatives are available weekdays between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. EST.

  • How long does it take to opt out of Yellow Pages?

    Plus

    Once the removal request has been submitted, the process will be completed within 48 hours.

Streamline the Opt-Out Process with PurePrivacy!

The guide offers strategies, data broker insights, PurePrivacy's aid, and YellowPages opt-out methods. 

It explains manual and PurePrivacy options, considering their pros and cons.

Opt for better privacy practices and stay safe online!

  • Simplify your online presence today

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

  1. https://techjury.net/blog/business-intelligence-statistics/
  2. https://www.similarweb.com/website/yellowpages.com/#overview
  3. https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/market-report/global-data-broker-market/55670/#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20projected%20market,reaching%20nearly%20USD%20365.70%20Bn