Wiping Your Digital Footprint: Is It Worth the Cost?

In honor of Cybersecurity Month, FOX43 delves into an increasingly relevant topic: the removal of personal information from online databases. With the rise of data brokers and the commodification of personal data, many individuals are left wondering if it’s worth their money to pay for services that promise to wipe their information from the web.

The Digital Self-Search

Let’s face it: most of us have googled ourselves at some point. It’s a harmless curiosity that can lead to surprising discoveries about what information is publicly available. Cybersecurity experts, like Dr. Bruce Young from Harrisburg University, recommend conducting these searches periodically. “You can plug your name into Chat GPT and find out what information comes back,” he suggests. This simple act can reveal the extent of personal data that’s been aggregated online, often without our consent.

The Data Broker Economy

At the heart of the issue lies the data broker industry. Rob Shavell, CEO and Co-Founder of DeleteMe, explains that there exists a hidden economy where companies buy and sell our personal information. “It’s completely, for the most part, legal in all 50 states,” he notes. Data brokers, such as Whitepages.com and Spokeo, collect information from various sources, including social media and even seemingly innocuous apps.

Shavell emphasizes that when we use free products, we often become the product ourselves. This means that our data is being harvested and sold, leading to unwanted spam calls, texts, and emails.

The Role of Data Removal Services

This is where services like DeleteMe come into play. These companies specialize in removing personal information from data broker databases. However, it’s important to note that this process is not a one-time fix. Shavell describes it as a “game of whack-a-mole” that requires ongoing effort.

While you can opt for a subscription service to continuously monitor and remove your information, there are also DIY options available. DeleteMe provides a comprehensive guide on their website for those who wish to tackle this task themselves.

The Cost of Privacy

If you decide to pay for a data removal service, the costs can vary significantly. Companies may charge anywhere from $3 to $25 per month for their services. This subscription model often includes regular checks for new data brokers that may have acquired your information.

To determine if this expense is worthwhile, consider trying the service for a few months. Monitor your spam calls, texts, and emails to see if there’s a noticeable decrease.

Is It Worth Your Money?

The decision to pay for data removal services ultimately depends on your personal comfort level with privacy and the amount of time you’re willing to invest. While these services can help mitigate the risks associated with having your information publicly available, they are not foolproof.

Experts agree that it’s a good idea to remove yourself from as many data broker sites as possible, regardless of whether you choose to pay for a service or go the DIY route.

Conclusion

As Cybersecurity Month reminds us, protecting our personal information is more important than ever. Whether you choose to pay for a service like DeleteMe or take on the task yourself, being proactive about your digital footprint can help safeguard your privacy.

If you have a story or question about data privacy that you’d like FOX43 to investigate, reach out to Jackie De Tore through her Facebook page or email FOX43FindsOut@FOX43.com. Join the conversation on the FOX43 Finds Out Facebook Page and stay informed about your digital rights.