Weekend Wins: Remove Your Data from the Internet in 3 Easy Steps (No Paid Service Required)

The one app that may change the game in online data removal

Let me ask you something:

When was the last time you Googled yourself?

I don’t mean in a “let’s see what the internet says about me” kind of way. I mean really looked. Did you make it past the first results page? Did you try looking up old addresses or relatives?

If you’re like most people, the answer is probably “never.”

And I get it. Who has the time to scour the internet for traces of their data? Between work, family, and trying to squeeze in a little “me time,” the last thing you want to do is spend your weekend playing detective.

But here’s the thing: your data is already out there.

We all know data brokers are collecting and selling our personal information to advertisers, scammers, and anyone else willing to pay. Your name, your address, your email, even your shopping habits—it’s all up for grabs.

And while most people assume locking down their privacy requires expensive tools like DeleteMe or hours of manual work, it doesn’t have to be that way.

I’ve got three simple steps that take less than 10 minutes—and they’re completely free.

Grab a coffee, knock these out, and get back to your day.

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Step 1: Download Kanary, A Free Data Removal Assistant

A few months ago, there was some buzz going around about an app that could find and remove public data.

Not only that but it was free and utilizes automation.

At first, I was skeptical. An automated data removal tool that’s free? Really?

Now if you’re like me this just seems to good to be true but when I say free: it’s free. No hidden fees, no upsells—just a straightforward way to find and remove your data from hundreds of data broker sites.

But how can it be free? How do they make money? The great thing is it’s not one of those sneaky free apps where they just get your data. Those are the ones we don’t like obviously.

I did some digging and Kanary’s main offering is Kanary Cloud an enterprise level service for businesses. Kanary Copilot is a service they offer for individuals. Looking into the privacy policy, I confirmed they do not engage in any data sharing or shady practices.

They are a community project focused on helping individuals fight back against companies that sneakily suck your data.

There product is free but they do offer a premium option for $9.99/mo which enables a few extra features. With all this I did not see any red flags.

So, I decided to give it a shot.

Here’s how to get started:

• Download Kanary on iOS (Sorry Android your app is still in development)

• Create an account (no credit card required).

• Run a scan to see where your data is being shared.

How many data broker sites do you think have your information? Take a guess and let me know in the comments

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Step 2: Review Your Results (You Might Be Shocked)

When I ran my first scan, I was stunned.

I’ve manually found and deleted information from sites in the past. I’ve discussed this in one of my other posts. Want to read more? You can check out here:

Your Data is Worth Thousands—Here’s Who’s Selling It (And How to Stop It)

Kanary found 15 different sites with my personal information—everything from my email address to my home address.

Some of them were sites even I’ve never even heard of (pretty cool).

After finding my data, you know what the best part is? Kanary makes it easy to remove your data.

Here’s what you do next:

• Review the list of sites where your data appears.

• Follow Kanary’s step-by-step instructions to request removal from each site.

• It automates the process and has you step in only when necessary.

• Click a few “Yes I’m human” Captchas, copy and paste a few emails, click send and you’re done

Now you wait…

“Have you ever tried to remove your data from a data broker site? Was it easy or frustrating? Let me know in the comments!”

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Step 3: Track Your Progress and Stay Protected

So full disclosure, just because you send the “remove my info” requests, it’s definitely not instant.

Some data brokers might take a few days to process your removal request, but Kanary makes it easy to track your progress.

And the best part? You can (and should) run regular scans to make sure your data doesn’t reappear.

They suggest at least once a week. I think that’s a little aggressive. For most people once a month will be more than enough. The app does somewhat “gamify” the process so you may find yourself checking in and zipping those requests off more often.

Here’s why you need to follow up:

• Every piece of personal information online is a potential target for identity theft, scams, and invasive tracking.

• By continually removing your data, you’re taking responsibility of your privacy without spending a dime.

• Your public data can often be resold and could pop back up in the future.

What’s the creepiest thing you’ve discovered about your online footprint? Share your story in the comments—I’ll feature the most surprising one in next week’s post!

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What About Paid Services?

If you’ve heard of DeleteMe or Incogni, you might be wondering how Kanary stacks up.

Here’s the truth:

• DeleteMe is a great tool, it will do everything for you, but it costs $129/year.

• Incogni also one of the best but coming in at $89/year with the current 50% off promotion, still more of an investment most people want to make.

• Kanary is free (with optional but not necessary paid upgrades) and just as effective for most people.

The choice is yours, but if you’re looking for a free, easy way to start, Kanary is a no-brainer.

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My Final Thoughts

So after putting a couple weeks into this I must say I’ve seen results (and was a little surprised to be honest).

Kanary can definitely hold its own for 7 out of 10 users. Some will NEED to utilize a paid service. I personally utilize a paid service in addition to Kanary.

Another option for paid service which I use is Malwarebytes’ Personal Data Removal feature. I have personally had data removed from over 43 sites and counting.

This runs fully automated with no interaction needed and is much more affordable than some of the other premium options.

If you’d like to give it a try check it out HERE and find out how exposed you are for free.

Next Week: Cut Your Risk of Identity Theft by 50% in Under 10 Minutes

Want to take your privacy to the next level?

Next week, I’ll show you how to cut your risk of identity theft by 50% in under 10 minutes. You’ll learn the one tool most people overlook and the simple steps you can take to protect yourself from cybercriminals.

Don’t miss it!

Your Privacy is in Your Hands

These three steps take less than 10 minutes—but they make a huge difference in securing your personal data.

Think about it: every piece of information you remove from the internet is one less target for identity thieves, scammers, and invasive advertisers. It’s like putting a lock on your digital front door—except it’s free, easy, and takes almost no time.

But here’s the thing: privacy isn’t a one-and-done deal.

The internet is constantly evolving, and new threats pop up every day. That’s why I created the Digital Privacy Toolkit—a step-by-step guide to help you stay ahead of the curve and protect your data for good.

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What’s Inside the Digital Privacy Toolkit?

This toolkit is designed for everyday people—no technical expertise required. Inside, you’ll find:

• Personal Cybersecurity Checklist: Simple steps to protect yourself from online threats.

• Identity Theft Prevention Guide: Learn how to prevent and respond to identity theft.

• Home Network Security Tips: Secure your home Wi-Fi and connected devices.

• Data Privacy Guide: Understand how to control who accesses your personal information.

• Social Media Privacy Settings: Manage what you share and with whom.

• Opting Out of Data Brokers Guide: Stop data brokers from profiting off your information.

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Why You Need This Toolkit

Here’s the truth: most people don’t take privacy seriously until it’s too late.

But by then, the damage is already done.

This toolkit is your first line of defense against the growing threats to your personal data. It’s not just about protecting your information—it’s about taking back control of your digital life.

With the Digital Privacy Toolkit, you’ll:

• Prevent Identity Theft: Protect your personal information from being stolen.

• Control the Flow of Your Data: Decide who can access your information and how it’s used.

• Gain Peace of Mind: Feel confident knowing your online presence is secure.

• Follow Clear, Actionable Steps: No technical jargon—just straightforward advice you can implement today.

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Who Is This For?

This toolkit is perfect for:

• Individuals concerned about their online privacy.

• Anyone new to cybersecurity.

• People who want to greedy tech companies from extorting their personal data.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a freelancer, or just someone who values their privacy, this toolkit is designed for you.

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Your Next Step

Ready to take control of your privacy?

👉 Download Kanary today

👉 Get the Digital Privacy Toolkit

Your data is your responsibility. Make sure it’s not being used by the wrong people.

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Now I Want to Hear From You

Most people never take action on their privacy—until it’s too late.

But you’re not most people.

You’re here, reading this, because you care about protecting your data and staying secure.

So let me ask you:

• Have you ever tried to remove your data from the internet?

• What’s the creepiest thing you’ve discovered about your online footprint?

• Do you have your own go-to privacy trick that most people don’t know about?

Drop a comment and let me know—I’d love to hear your story.

And if you found this post helpful, restack it or share it with someone who needs it. Because most people have no idea how exposed they really are.

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Until next time…

Stay Informed. Stay Secure. Stay Curious.