How data brokers collect and circulate personal information

01

Look for the source behind the assembled profile

The FTC describes people-search reports as drawing on sources such as public records, public social profiles and other brokers. A report can therefore contain both accurate information and an outdated or mistaken association.

For example, a former address may connect you to someone who later lived there. Do not assume that every listed associate is a real personal relationship. Record the disputed connection and the source, if the service identifies it, without spreading the report to a wider audience.

02

Create an exposure map

This map is more useful than a general statement that your information is everywhere. It also prevents a team from repeatedly working on the same profile while missing an independent source with a different correction process.

• The broker or people-search service displaying the information.
• The exact profile or report identifier.
• The particular data that concerns you.
• Whether it is accurate, outdated or linked to the wrong person.
• Any apparent original source that needs separate review.

03

Choose a request and verify its scope

Use the service's official privacy or opt-out instructions and review what the request covers. An opt-out from a people-search site does not delete the underlying public record. Information may also reappear, so a later verification date is part of a practical plan.

For a US–Mexico situation, distinguish the location and practices of the service from assumptions about which legal rights apply. If legal applicability matters, get appropriate advice. Keep verification documents private and do not provide extra sensitive information simply to obtain a more detailed report about yourself.

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