You Googled your name and there it was: a FastPeopleSearch result showing your current address, past residences, phone numbers, and even a list of your relatives.
It’s a jarring, invasive experience that leaves you feeling exposed and vulnerable. You are not alone, and more importantly, you can take action.
FastPeopleSearch is a data broker, a type of company that legally scrapes public records and other online sources to compile detailed digital dossiers on millions of people.
While they market themselves as a tool for reconnecting, their databases are often exploited for doxxing, stalking, and identity theft.
Getting your information off their site is your right. This definitive guide will walk you through the exact, step-by-step process for a complete FastPeopleSearch removal.
We’ll cover the official opt-out process, explain why you need to be vigilant even after removal, and provide expert strategies to protect your digital footprint for good.
First, Is FastPeopleSearch Legit?
Yes, FastPeopleSearch is a legitimate company in the sense that it operates legally.
It aggregates data that is already publicly available through government agencies (property records, court filings, voter registrations) and other commercial sources.
However, the ease with which it compiles and displays this sensitive information is what creates significant privacy and safety risks for individuals.
The FastPeopleSearch Removal Process: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Follow these instructions precisely to ensure your opt-out request is processed correctly. The entire process is free and should not require a credit card.
Step 1: Go to the Official FastPeopleSearch Removal Page
The most critical step is to start in the right place. Do not search for yourself from the homepage. You must use their dedicated opt-out portal.
- Official Removal Link: https://www.fastpeoplesearch.com/removal
Step 2: Enter Your Email and Agree to the Terms
On the removal page, you’ll see a simple form.
- Email Address: Enter an email address. For maximum privacy, it is highly recommended to use a secondary or “burner” email address that is not tied to your primary personal accounts.
- Check the Boxes: You must check the box to agree you are the person whose record you want to remove. You will also need to complete the reCAPTCHA challenge to prove you’re not a bot.
- Click the blue “Begin Removal Process” button.
(Note: Image placeholders are for illustrative purposes)
Step 3: Search for Your Listing
The site will now prompt you to search for your record.
- Enter your First Name, Last Name, City, and State.
- Click the “Free Search” button.
Step 4: Locate Your Record
Scroll through the list of results to find your specific profile. It may list your age and relatives to help you identify the correct one.
- Important: Do not click on your name. Doing so will take you out of the removal process. Instead, click the button below your entry that says “View Free Details.”
Step 5: Click the Final Removal Button
You will now be on your detailed profile page within the removal system.
- At the top of the page, click the prominent red button that says “Remove My Record.”
- Warning: Avoid any other buttons that say “View Full Background Report” or similar, as these are often advertisements that redirect you to different, paid background check websites.
Step 6: Confirm Your Request Via Email
The system will automatically send a verification link to the email address you provided in Step 2. This link is usually only valid for 24 hours.
- Go to your email inbox (check the spam or junk folder if you don’t see it).
- Open the email from FastPeopleSearch.
- Click the final confirmation link inside. It will typically say something like, “Click here to remove [Your Name]”.
This will open a new browser tab confirming that your removal request has been received and is being processed.
What Happens After You Opt Out?
Your record will not vanish instantly. FastPeopleSearch states it can take up to 72 hours for your information to be completely removed from their website.
- Verify the Removal: After a few days, use a private or incognito browser window to search for your name on their site again to confirm your profile is gone.
- Clearing Google’s Cache: Even after your data is off their site, a link might linger in Google’s search results for a while. If you click it, it will lead to an error page. You can speed up its removal from Google by using the official Google Remove Outdated Content Tool.
The Data Broker Problem: Why Your Info Might Reappear
A one-time removal is a great first step, but it is not a permanent solution. Data brokers like FastPeopleSearch are constantly scraping public records.
If you move, buy property, or your name appears in a new public document, their systems may automatically find this new data and create a new profile for you.
It is wise to set a calendar reminder to check the site for your name every 3-6 months and be prepared to repeat the opt-out process if necessary.
What are DIY Removal Methods and Paid Data Removal Services
For those serious about their privacy, the fight doesn’t end with one website. There are hundreds of data brokers just like FastPeopleSearch.
- DIY Approach: You can manually go to each data broker (like Spokeo, Whitepages, BeenVerified, etc.) and complete their unique, often complicated, opt-out procedures. This is free but extremely time-consuming.
- Paid Services: For a more effective, hands-off approach, you can use a data removal service. Companies like DeleteMe, Kanary, or Incogni act on your behalf, sending out and managing removal requests to hundreds of brokers and continuously monitoring to ensure your data stays down. This is the most efficient way to manage the problem at scale.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it free to remove my info from FastPeopleSearch?
Yes, the entire opt-out process on their official removal page is 100% free. You should never be asked for payment to remove a record.
How did FastPeopleSearch get my information?
They legally collect it from publicly available sources, including property records, court filings, marriage licenses, and voter registration files. They also buy data from other commercial sources.
Will removing my information affect my credit score?
No. FastPeopleSearch is not a credit reporting agency, and removing your data from their site has no impact on your credit score or official records.
I don’t see the “Remove My Record” button. What should I do?
This is a common issue. First, make sure you followed the steps exactly and started at the /removal URL. Second, temporarily disable any ad-blocking browser extensions, as they can sometimes hide the button.
How long does it take for my info to be removed?
It can take up to 72 hours after you click the final confirmation link in your email for the record to be fully removed from their website.