DeleteMe

DeleteMe is an American internet data privacy service, initially founded in 2010 by Rob Shavell, Eugene Kuznetsov, and Andrew Sudbury, though some sources indicate it was officially established in 2011. The company is aimed at helping individuals remove their personal data from data broker sites and search engines, which can potentially misuse this information. DeleteMe operates by using both automated systems and human intervention to request the removal of user data. It provides a dashboard for users to track updates on data brokers and manage their data across various platforms. This service aligns with privacy regulations like the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020, ensuring users are notified when new brokers are identified and given the option to opt out. DeleteMe is part of Abine’s services and is known for its emphasis on privacy and security. The company’s services are particularly valuable to sectors such as cybersecurity, government, and non-profit organizations. DeleteMe’s mission is to protect users’ privacy by making the internet a safer place for individuals to maintain their personal data security. Despite its efforts, a Consumer Reports study found that DeleteMe removed 27% of results from people-search sites within four months, which was described as a ‘midlevel’ performance compared to manual removals. The company’s privacy policy allows for the potential sale or transfer of user data in business transactions, which might raise concerns for privacy-conscious subscribers.