What is this?
Companies want to keep your data. Many websites use dark pattern techniques to make it hard, difficult or impossible to figure out how to delete your account. HelpDelete.com aims to guide you where possible so that you can delete your account from web services.
How can my personal information land on the internet?
When fraudsters have your information, it could lead to serious trouble. Once they obtain your full name and other personal details, they could use these together to steal your identity, wreak havoc on your finances, send phishing attempts, or even stalk you in person.
Examples of personal information include:
- Details such as full name, physical address, telephone number, and education history.
- Bank account numbers and login information.
- Account credentials, such as user names and passwords, for websites.
- Health information or health insurance details.
- Identification numbers, such as a passport number, Social Security number, or tax identification number.
There are different ways that your information may end up for sale to criminals. Troy Hunt has created a website which lets you see where your information has been leaked online by listing the data breaches where your email was found
Data breaches
These occur when unauthorized individuals access databases to steal and release personally identifying information, or PII.
The targeted information may include names, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, medical and financial records, and email addresses and passwords.
Data brokers
These companies collect and sell all the data they can legally get their hands on, such as names, date of birth, telephone numbers, addresses, land records, marriage records, criminal history, social media profiles, and more. They consolidate this data from dozens of different public records, then compile it online.
