With online privacy becoming a significant concern among internet users, opting out of Smart Background Checks, other data aggregates, and people-search websites has become more critical than ever. A study by Google Trends suggested that Google searches for Smart Background Checks opt-out techniques reached a record high in October 2020.
If you care about privacy, you may want to remove your information. This guide will show you how to opt out.
Understanding SmartBackgroundChecks
SmartBackgroundChecks is a people search website that collects and displays public records information. It works as a consumer record search engine, pulling details like aliases, employment history, location history, and personal information from various sources. This includes court records, property records, and social media. The site operates under a data broker business model, meaning it gathers and sells data without requiring user consent.
Many people are surprised to find their details on a profile search page without signing up. The database often includes names, phone numbers, home addresses, and even family connections. While this service is legal, it raises privacy concerns. Some users have even filed Better Business Bureau complaints, citing difficulty removing their information.
Data brokers profit by selling access to this information, making it easy for businesses, recruiters, and even strangers to find personal details. If you value privacy, opting out is essential. Understanding how these sites work helps you take control of your digital footprint.
Privacy and Legal Concerns
Many people worry about the privacy and legal issues linked to SmartBackgroundChecks. This site collects personal data and makes it publicly available. While this information comes from public records, you may not want it easily accessible online.
SmartBackgroundChecks operates as a data broker service, meaning it gathers, stores, and shares personal data. While legal, it raises concerns about identity theft and online stalking. If your home address or phone number is exposed, it could put your safety at risk.
Under privacy laws like the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act), residents of California can request data removal. The FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) regulates how consumer reports are used but does not cover sites like SmartBackgroundChecks unless they provide reports for employment, credit, or housing decisions. Checking the SmartBackgroundChecks privacy policy and terms of use can help you understand how your information is handled.
If you want to remove your data, you can submit a suppression request. However, data brokers often share information with third-party sites, so opting out of one site may not fully erase your online footprint. Protecting your proprietary rights to your personal data requires ongoing effort, including monitoring other sites and staying informed about privacy laws.
Opt-Out Process
Removing your information from SmartBackgroundChecks requires a few simple steps. This process helps keep your personal details off people search websites. Follow these steps carefully to submit your removal request.
Step 1: Visit the SmartBackgroundChecks Website
Open your web browser and go to SmartBackgroundChecks.com.
Step 2: Access the Opt-Out Page
Scroll to the bottom of the homepage and click on “Do Not Sell My Personal Information.” This link takes you to the opt-out form. 
Step 3: Enter Your Email and Complete the Security Check
Provide a valid email address, agree to the terms and conditions, and complete the security captcha. Click on “Accept Terms & Start Removal.” 
Step 4: Search for Your Information
Select the “Search Features” option to find your personal data. This helps locate your profile in the site’s database.
Step 5: Enter Your Name and Location
You will be redirected to the homepage. Type in your first, middle, and last name, along with your location, to begin the search.
Step 6: Find Your Profile
Look through the search results to find your listing. Click on “Click For More Details” to access your profile page.
Step 7: Submit a Removal Request
Scroll down to locate your address. Click the “Request My Record To Be Removed” button to submit your request to the privacy team. 
Step 8: Verify Your Email
Check your inbox for an email verification message. Click the validation link to confirm your request. This step ensures that SmartBackgroundChecks processes your request properly. 
The opt-out process will take up to 72 hours to review, and then it will be removed from their official website. It is important to note that this process only removes your data from this website. However, it is highly likely accessible on several other data brokers.
Additional Opt-Out Resources
If you need more help removing your information, there are other options. Some websites offer scan and removal services to check where your data is exposed. Tools like NewReputation can automate the opt-out process for multiple data brokers. You can also try opt-out agents—services that handle requests on your behalf.
For a step-by-step guide, look for video guides that walk you through the process. Many privacy experts share tutorials on how to opt out using the official in-browser form for different sites.
Before using any service, read the disclaimer of warranties and the liability limitation statement to understand their policies. Some companies do not guarantee permanent removal. If you run into issues, check their resolution of disputes section to see how they handle complaints.
Taking control of your online presence is possible with the right tools. Keep scanning for new exposures and opt out whenever your information appears.
Managing Your Online Reputation
Your online reputation is more important than ever. Everything from your social media posts to public records can be found online. If you don’t take control of your personal data, someone else might. A Pew Research Center study shows that most people worry about online privacy protection, but few take steps to protect themselves.
Reputation management isn’t just for celebrities. Employers, landlords, and even strangers can search your name. If they find outdated or sensitive information, it can impact your career, relationships, or safety. Data brokers collect and sell your details without your consent. This includes your private data, home address, and even phone number. In some cases, your exposure could lead to identity theft or online stalking.
To take control, you need data control. Start by reviewing your privacy policy settings on social media. Limit what’s public. If your information is on people-search sites, request removal. Many online reputation management specialists help with this process. You can also use NewReputation services to monitor your digital footprint.
Your personal data is valuable. Protecting it means protecting yourself. The internet never forgets, but with the right steps, you can manage your online reputation and stay in control.
Final Thoughts
SmartBackgroundChecks makes personal data easy to find. But you can take control of your privacy. Follow this guide to remove your info. Stay proactive to keep your data secure.
For more online privacy services, visit NewReputation.
Data Broker Opt-Out Guides
