What is a data broker and how do they get your information?
Data brokers are companies that collect and sell your personal information. They gather your name, address, phone number, email, shopping habits, and other details from public records, purchases, and websites, then sell it to advertisers, banks, and other businesses. You probably never gave them permission — they just buy the data from other sources or scrape it from the internet.
Data brokers are middlemen in the personal information business. They buy data from public records, retailers, and websites, then organize it and sell it to anyone who pays. No one asks your permission — it's all perfectly legal. An advertiser buys a list of people who visited certain websites, so they can target you with ads.
No step-by-step guide available for this issue yet — book a technician directly.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Thinking you're safe because you have privacy settings on social media — data brokers get information from many other sources
- Assuming only big tech companies collect your data — data brokers collect from banks, insurance companies, and everyday retailers
- Not realizing that 'free' services and apps pay for themselves by selling your information
- Thinking once you 'opt out' with one data broker, you're fully protected — dozens of data brokers exist and you have to opt out from each one
Signs you need professional help
- You found your information on a data broker website and want to get it removed
- You're not sure which data brokers have your information
- You want to opt out from data brokers but the process is confusing
Book a technician
We can fix most issues remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments — book your slot and we handle the rest.
Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only — no parts, no in-home visit needed.