FamilyTreeNow is a popular genealogy website that provides access to a wealth of personal information, including full names, addresses, phone numbers, and even historical records. While this platform can be a fantastic tool for those researching their family history, it also poses a significant privacy risk. If you’re concerned about your personal data being accessible to anyone with an internet connection, opting out of FamilyTreeNow is essential. This guide will walk you through the process of removing your information from the site.
Why You Should Opt Out
FamilyTreeNow compiles data from various public records and makes it easily searchable. This means anyone can look up your information without your consent, which can lead to unwanted attention, identity theft, or even harassment. By opting out, you can reclaim your privacy and prevent your data from being misused.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Opting Out
Step 1: Access the Opt-Out Page
- Visit FamilyTreeNow: Go to the FamilyTreeNow opt-out page.
- Enter Your Email Address: In the opt-out request form, enter your email address. This is crucial for confirming your request later on.
- Complete the CAPTCHA: Check the box that indicates you are human and complete any CAPTCHA verification to proceed.
- Click “Begin Opt Out Procedure”: This will take you to the search page where you can look for your record.
Step 2: Search for Your Record
- Input Your Information: Enter your first name, last name, city, and state in the search fields. For more accurate results, you can also add your birth year.
- Click “Search”: This will bring up a list of records that match your search criteria.
Step 3: Confirm Your Record
- Find Your Record: Look through the results and click on “View Details” for the record that belongs to you. Make sure to verify that the details match your information.
- Click the Red “Opt Out This Record” Button: This button is typically found at the top of your record details.
Step 4: Verify Your Opt-Out Request
- Check Your Email: After clicking the opt-out button, you will receive a confirmation email. This email will contain a link that you need to click to finalize your opt-out request.
- Complete the Process: Click the link in the email to confirm your request.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
- Allow 72 Hours for Processing: After confirming your opt-out request, it may take up to 72 hours for your information to be removed from the site.
Step 6: Follow Up
- Check Back: After a few days, return to FamilyTreeNow to ensure your information has been successfully removed. If it’s still visible, you may need to repeat the process or contact FamilyTreeNow for further assistance.
What If My Information Is Still There?
If you find that your information remains on FamilyTreeNow after following the steps:
- Retry the Opt-Out Process: Sometimes the system may not register your request properly. It’s worth trying the process again.
- Contact FamilyTreeNow: Go to the Contact Us page on their site and fill out the form explaining your situation. Be sure to include the URL of your record for reference.
Additional Privacy Measures
While opting out of FamilyTreeNow is a crucial step, consider taking additional measures to protect your privacy:
- Use a Disposable Email Address: When contacting data brokers, using a disposable email can help prevent spam and unwanted marketing.
- Monitor Your Online Presence: Regularly search for your name online to check what information is publicly available. Consider setting up Google Alerts to keep tabs on any new content associated with your name.
- Explore Professional Help: If you want to ensure your personal information is removed from multiple data broker sites, consider using an online reputation management service. These services can assist in monitoring and removing your information from various platforms.
Conclusion
Opting out of FamilyTreeNow is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your online privacy. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can take control of your personal information and prevent data brokers from making it publicly accessible. If you encounter any difficulties or simply prefer to have experts handle it, we offer professional services to assist in removing your information from FamilyTreeNow and other data broker sites. Protecting your privacy is essential—don’t wait to take action!