About & methodology

OptOutWatch is an independent guide to removing yourself from data brokers and people-search sites. Each broker gets one page with the opt-out link, the steps, and the date we last checked the link.

What "link checked" means

An automated script visits every broker's homepage and opt-out link and records the HTTP response, any redirects, and whether the domain still exists. It last ran on Oct 29, 2026. Each broker then gets one of three labels:

• Link responds: the opt-out link returned a normal response and stayed on the broker's own site (or a known privacy-request vendor). Some sites block automated visitors (for example with HTTP 403). We still count those as responding but note it on the page, because our script couldn't see the page itself.
• Needs review: the site is up, but the opt-out link returned "not found", a server error, or no response, or it now redirects to a different site or the homepage. We also use this label when we have no opt-out link on file.
• Site appears dead: the domain doesn't resolve or the site doesn't respond.

What we don't claim: a responding link doesn't mean the opt-out works or that your record will be removed. We never say a process is "verified" unless a person actually tested it, and when we do, the page will say so with a date.

Where the data comes from

• Broker list, opt-out links, and some difficulty, method, and exposed-data fields: the PersProtect Data Broker Opt-Out List by PersProtect, licensed under CC BY 4.0. Changes we made: added automated link-check results, wrote original step-by-step instructions, grouped sites that share an opt-out form, and added an editorial priority order. PersProtect doesn't endorse OptOutWatch.
• Cross-reference: the Big Ass Data Broker Opt-Out List (BADBOOL) by Yael Grauer, licensed CC BY-NC-SA 4.0. Because that license doesn't allow commercial reuse, we don't copy its text. We only note facts it reports, such as which sites it calls high priority or recently removed, and we always link back to it. If you want a free, volunteer-run list, it's a great one.

How often we check

The link checker is designed to run at least monthly. The Changed page lists what moved since the last run.

Why re-check every 6 months?

Brokers rebuild profiles from public records, marketing lists, and each other. An opt-out that worked in spring may not hold through fall. A twice-yearly sweep is a common habit among privacy advocates, and our newsletter can remind you.

Independence

Some pages link to paid removal services, and we may earn a commission. See our affiliate disclosure. Affiliate relationships don't change the steps or the link-check results. The do-it-yourself steps are always on the page, and always free.