How do I get all my data off the internet?

Reclaiming Your Digital You: How to Minimize Your Online Data Footprint

The internet never forgets. Or so it seems. While achieving complete digital oblivion is a near-impossible feat, you can significantly reduce your online presence by taking proactive steps to manage your data. This involves a two-pronged approach: scrubbing information from platforms you control and requesting removal from data brokers who collect and sell your personal information.

Part 1: Cleaning House on Your Own Digital Turf

The first step towards minimizing your online footprint is to tackle the low-hanging fruit: the accounts and platforms you directly control. This includes:

• Social Media Platforms: Begin by reviewing your privacy settings on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and other social media accounts. Consider deleting inactive accounts or, if you wish to remain active, adjust your settings to limit the visibility of your posts and personal information. Download your data archives before deleting accounts, as this might be the only way to retrieve photos and other content later.

• Online Shopping Sites: Many e-commerce platforms store your purchase history, addresses, and payment information. Review your account settings and delete any information you’re uncomfortable sharing. Unsubscribe from marketing emails to reduce future data collection.

• Email Accounts: Go through old emails and delete unnecessary messages, especially those containing sensitive information. Unsubscribe from newsletters and promotional emails. If you’re ready for a clean slate, consider creating a new email address and gradually phasing out your old one.

• Cloud Storage Services: Review the files you store on services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud. Delete any files you no longer need, especially those containing personal or financial data.

• Dating Apps and Forums: Deactivate or delete profiles on dating apps and online forums. Remember to clear your browsing history and cache after deleting accounts to remove any locally stored data.

Part 2: Taking on the Data Brokers

Data brokers are companies that collect and sell your personal information, from your address and phone number to your shopping habits and online activity. Minimizing your presence here requires a more proactive and persistent approach:

• Identify the Key Players: Start by identifying the major data brokers operating in your region. Some prominent examples include Acxiom, Experian, Equifax, Intelius, and Spokeo.

• Utilize Opt-Out Tools: Many data brokers offer opt-out processes, though they can be cumbersome and time-consuming. Some websites offer automated tools that streamline the opt-out process across multiple brokers. However, be aware that these services may come with their own privacy implications.

• Request Removal Directly: If automated tools fail, you’ll likely need to contact each data broker individually and request the removal of your information. Be prepared to provide proof of your identity and follow up on your requests.

• Stay Vigilant: Data brokers constantly collect information, so you’ll need to repeat this process periodically to maintain your privacy.

The Long Game: Maintaining a Minimal Digital Footprint

Reclaiming your digital footprint is an ongoing process. Adopting good digital hygiene practices will help you maintain a smaller online presence going forward:

• Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication: Secure your accounts to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
• Review Privacy Policies: Before signing up for any online service, carefully review its privacy policy to understand how your data will be collected and used.
• Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network can mask your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic, making it harder for websites and data brokers to track your online activity.
• Be Mindful of What You Share: Think twice before sharing personal information online, especially on public platforms.

While completely erasing your digital footprint may be impossible, taking control of your data and minimizing your online presence is a crucial step towards protecting your privacy in the digital age.