Michael Bazzell Data Broker Audit

Perform a systematic Michael Bazzell data broker removal audit to find active listings, submit opt-out requests, and track removals in 60 minutes.

5 time blocks, 60 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Search Major People Search Sites: 15 min
Search name and region on primary sites to collect profile links
Create Isolated Verification Email: 5 min
Set up a temporary or disposable email for receiving removal links
Submit Web Form Opt Outs: 25 min
Submit removal forms with profile URLs without extra personal data
Log Submissions in Audit Sheet: 10 min
Record target site, submission date, and expected removal window
Set Verification Reminders: 5 min
Schedule calendar alerts 14 and 30 days out to confirm deletion

About this routine

In his privacy manual Extreme Privacy, former intelligence investigator Michael Bazzell details a precise system to reclaim personal information. The Michael Bazzell data broker removal strategy focuses on direct manual opt-out requests rather than relying on automated paid services.

Automated removal services often miss regional site variations or fail when brokers re-index public records. Submitting manual opt-outs ensures each request uses the exact profile URL while avoiding the submission of unnecessary secondary phone numbers or government identifiers.

By systematically searching major databases, logging submissions, and scheduling follow-up verification checks, you maintain complete oversight of your personal data footprint without creating new privacy leaks.

Why this routine works

Removes personal address and phone records from public search engines
Prevents automated privacy services from sharing extra personal data
Establishes a verifiable tracking log for ongoing data privacy maintenance

FAQ

What is Michael Bazzell's approach to data broker removal?

Michael Bazzell advocates for direct manual opt-out requests using exact profile URLs. This avoids submitting extra identity data to third-party brokers or subscription removal services.

How long does a manual data broker audit take?

This manual data broker audit takes 60 minutes to complete initial searches, opt-out submissions, and tracking entries.

How often should you audit data brokers?

Data brokers re-index public records regularly. Running a manual audit every six to twelve months ensures new listings are identified and removed.