Online Privacy
Data brokers
The industry that sells your details, and how to opt out.
4 min readIntermediatePrivacyIdentity
What You Need to Know
Data brokers compile public records, purchase histories, and app data into profiles that include addresses, phone numbers, and relatives, then sell access to them.
Why It Matters
Broker listings power spam, scam targeting, and harassment. Opting out is tedious but meaningfully reduces exposure.
Warning Signs checklist
- Your address and relatives appear in search results
- Spam calls reference accurate personal details
- Mail arrives from companies you never contacted
- Old addresses remain linked to your name
How to Protect Yourself steps
- 1Search your name and list the sites that appear
- 2Submit opt-out requests to the largest brokers first
- 3Use a dedicated email address for opt-out paperwork
- 4Recheck every six to twelve months
Quick Checklist
- Search your name and list the sites that appear
- Submit opt-out requests to the largest brokers first
- Use a dedicated email address for opt-out paperwork
- Recheck every six to twelve months
Helpful Resources
- The Curiosity EditLong-form essays on cyber, AI, and everyday technology.
- Career GalaxyDiscover the careers built around this exact problem.
- Government resourcesOfficial reporting and recovery links, being verified before we publish them.
- Trusted nonprofitsCommunity partners offering free education and support, list in progress.
Follow the Rabbit Hole