Hey everyone,

I'm digging into being better about personal info and online security and how to remove personal data from the internet. What resources, techniques and tips do you have that have worked for you?

Thanks!

First and foremost, good on ya for taking the time to focus on personal and online security.

While I have not used some of the services touted to do a great job of removing online data, thus reducing or removing your info from "Data Brokers," the one I hear the most about is "Delete Me " (https://www.deleteme.com/).

Some things I do to help are from an online perspective:
1) Create ONE email address that is used ONLY for online shopping.
2) Create ONE email address that is used ONLY for financial transactions.
3) Create ONE email address that is used ONLY for personal emails (to friends, family, etc.)

While it may be a bit of overhead to have 3 separate email addresses, I find it reduces the spam a fair bit.

When you DO get emails on any of those addresses, NEVER (EVER) click a link. EVEN if you believe you know the email came from someone you know, bad actors are getting better and better EVERY day. A clicked link can open a back door to allow bad actors to gain access to your data, information and possibly infect OTHER devices you own.

Another thing you can do, is to employ the use of a VPN on your laptop/desktop, mobile device, etc.

Now, for your mobile #, I utilize a Google Voice number for the bulk of my bills, online shopping, etc. leaving my real mobile number for family, friends, etc.

You may be asking, what are my bona fides / credentials related to this topic:
I have been working in the Tech Sector for 41 years and in Cybersecurity for 25.

Biggest item to tackle will be the Data Brokers (using a service like Delete Me). It will take time, but from the reports I have heard from those who've used...the level of data reduction is pretty substantial.

Good luck.