As you use the internet for everything from working and studying to shopping and socializing, you might not realize just how much data about yourself you are leaving behind. And you might not even know who has access to that data. So, to better understand where your data might be found online, and what you can do if you want to take steps to protect that data, continue reading.
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Who Might Have Access to Your Data?
There are many businesses and apps that likely have some amount of data on you. For example, if you have downloaded an app that asks for your location, they have that data on you. And if you use social media platforms like Facebook, you might want to go into the settings and take a look at the permissions that the platform has to track and use your data. Also, if you have created accounts with online shops, they might also have data on you, particularly as it pertains to your buying preferences and habits.
Don’t Forget About People Search Websites
When it comes to who has access to data about you, it is important to look beyond the websites and apps that you knowingly interact with. You can start to get a better idea of where your personal details are found online by simply doing a quick search of your full name on whichever search engine you prefer. What you may realize is that a lot of people search websites have your contact details and make it possible for just about anyone to run a background check on you as well.
What is a people search site? Well, the intentions are good because these databases make it easier to find someone you’re looking for. Let’s say that you’ve lost touch with one of your good friends from school, as an example. By going to a people search site, you might be able to submit their name and get enough contact information to reconnect with them. At the same time, though, if you are concerned about your privacy, or you are worried about your personal details getting into the wrong hands, you’ll likely want to have your data removed from these types of sites. Thankfully, sites like Radaris give you the chance to do just that by going to the Radaris opt out page.
Another popular people search website that might be hosting information about you is FastPeopleSearch, but once again, you can regain control by heading to the FastPeopleSearch opt out page.
How to Stop Access to Your Data
In addition to tackling people search websites as discussed above (for example, by going to the SearchPeopleFree opt out page), you can also prevent, or at least limit, access to your data in several other ways.
You can start by checking your privacy settings on any account you open, including your social media accounts. Limiting third party access to your data is a smart way to start to regain control. But, in addition to checking settings on websites and social media platforms, don’t forget to do the same with each of the apps that you have downloaded. Be sure to choose settings that keep your data as private and secure as possible.
Bottom line: you can limit the amount of data that companies can access, but you need to take steps to make it happen!
