SmartBackgroundChecks is an online data broker that collects and publishes personal information, making it accessible to the public. This website aggregates data from over 2,000 sources, including public records maintained by local, state, and federal authorities. By simply entering a name, phone number, or address, users can access detailed personal information, including:

  • Location History
  • Aliases and Employment History
  • Public Records and Personal Details

Why Opting Out Is Crucial

With increasing online privacy concerns, opting out of data broker websites like SmartBackgroundChecks is more important than ever. Personal information listed online exposes individuals to identity theft, scams, robocalls, and other privacy breaches.

How Does SmartBackgroundChecks Work?

SmartBackgroundChecks collects and compiles information from public records, organizing it into easily searchable profiles. It uses a people search function, allowing users to look up anyone using minimal details.

  • Data Sources: Public records, social networks, and other third-party data brokers.
  • Data Displayed: Name, address history, contact information, and even location history.

Concerns with SmartBackgroundChecks

Several privacy concerns have been raised about SmartBackgroundChecks, including:

  • Publishing personal information without user consent.
  • Ineffective opt-out functions.
  • Delays in processing removal requests.
  • Limited customer service support.

Legal Status and Legitimacy

SmartBackgroundChecks operates legally within the U.S. as it pulls information from publicly available sources. However, it’s not a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) as per the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), meaning it cannot be used for employment, credit, or tenant screening.

How to Remove Your Personal Information from SmartBackgroundChecks

Fortunately, opting out of SmartBackgroundChecks is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively:

Step 1: Start the Opt-Out Process

  1. Go to the Opt-Out Page
    Visit SmartBackgroundChecks Opt-Out Page.
  2. Enter Your Email Address
    • At the bottom of the page, enter your email address.
    • Check the box to agree to the terms.
    • Complete the CAPTCHA.
    • Click “Accept Terms and Start Removal.”
  3. Proceed to Search for Your Information
    • After clicking the button, you’ll be redirected to a page explaining the next steps.
    • Use the search features to locate your personal information.

Note: Clicking the SmartBackgroundChecks logo on the top right will redirect you to the homepage if the search links don’t work.

Step 2: Locate Your Personal Information

  1. Search for Your Profile
    • On the homepage, enter your name, city, and state in the search form.
    • Click “Search”.
  2. Review the Search Results
    • Locate the profile containing your personal information.
    • Click on the “Open Free Background Report” button to view the details.

Step 3: Submit the Removal Request

  1. Request Removal
    • Scroll down to the bottom of your profile listing.
    • Click “Request My Record To Be Removed.”
  2. Confirmation
    • You’ll be redirected to a confirmation page.
    • A confirmation email will be sent to your provided email address.

Important Notes:

  • You can only request removal for up to five records in 24 hours.
  • Opt-out requests can only be made for your own records or those of a relative.
  • The removal process can take a few days to complete.

Alternative Opt-Out Methods

Method 1: Contacting the Privacy Team Directly

  1. Get the Profile URL
    • Find the relevant profile and right-click on the “Open Free Background Report” button.
    • Copy the link address.
  2. Contact the Privacy Team
    • Visit the Contact Us Page.
    • Fill out the form with your name, email, and the copied URL.
    • Click “Submit Your Question.”

Tip: Use a disposable email address for privacy concerns.

Method 2: Using the In-Browser Opt-Out Form

  1. Go to the Opt-Out Form
  2. Enter Your Details
    • Provide an accessible email address.
    • Select “I am the subject” and solve the CAPTCHA.
    • Click “Accept Terms & Start Removal.”
  3. Verify Email
    • A verification email will be sent to your inbox.
    • Click the link in the email to confirm the removal request.

Common Complaints and Issues

1. Ineffective Opt-Out Functionality

Many users report that the opt-out feature does not work as expected or takes longer than promised.

2. Listing Without Consent

SmartBackgroundChecks lists personal information without explicit consumer consent, raising privacy concerns.

3. No Direct Customer Support

The website lacks direct customer service contact details, making it challenging for users to follow up on removal requests.

Privacy Tips: Protecting Your Online Data

  1. Use Disposable Emails: When contacting data brokers, use a disposable or secondary email address to avoid spam.
  2. Monitor Your Information: Regularly check if your information reappears on SmartBackgroundChecks or other similar websites.
  3. Clear Browser Cache: Clear your cache and cookies after visiting SmartBackgroundChecks to ensure your personal information isn’t cached.
  4. Annual Review: Since SmartBackgroundChecks maintains records for 12 months, make it a habit to review and re-opt out every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Long Does the Opt-Out Process Take?

SmartBackgroundChecks claims to process removal requests within 72 hours. However, it might take up to a week in some cases.

2. Why Is My Information Still Visible?

  • The data is cached in your browser. Clear your cache and check again.
  • The record might be listed on other people search websites. You need to opt out individually from those sites.

3. Do I Need to Opt Out Annually?

Yes, SmartBackgroundChecks maintains its records for 12 months. You’ll need to re-submit your opt-out request once the suppression life expires.

4. Will Opting Out Remove My Information from Other Websites?

No, opting out of SmartBackgroundChecks only removes information from their database. You need to repeat the process on other people search sites.

Conclusion

SmartBackgroundChecks.com collects and publishes personal information, exposing individuals to potential privacy threats. Fortunately, opting out is straightforward and free. Following the detailed steps above will help you remove your information effectively.

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