How to disappear from the internet in 2024

Have you ever searched for your name on Google and been surprised by how much information is out there? You can regain control over your privacy by following a few simple steps to remove your information from the internet in 2024.

Why is it important to safeguard your personal information?

In 2024, the impact of AI on our daily lives is undeniable. On one hand, AI-driven tools can produce remarkably realistic images, and autocomplete features have become more sophisticated. However, there's a darker side to AI misuse. There have been instances of scammers using AI voice models to impersonate loved ones, exploiting personal information to make their attacks more convincing.Privacy is a fundamental right that should be protected. It's concerning that personal information can be easily exposed through a simple online search. As it stands, maintaining privacy requires active effort and vigilance.

Delete unwanted search results from Google

In the US or the UK, Google provides a way to request the removal of specific webpages that contain personal information from its search results. If you come across a site with sensitive information, you can promptly submit a request to prevent it from appearing in future Google Search results. Additionally, Google offers a "Results about you" feature to help you proactively manage your online privacy by identifying potential instances of your information being published online.However, it's irmpotant to note that this feature does not remove the information from the web entirely. If someone uses a different search engine, they may still be able to find the offending page.For more details, you can refer to Google's guide on "Results about you" and the removal process.

Reduce your social media footprint

A fundamental step to protect your privacy online is to be mindful of what you share on social media. While these platforms are great for connecting with others, they can also pose risks to your digital privacy. It's essential to review your privacy settings on social media accounts regularly.For example, while Twitter posts are public by default, Facebook allows for more nuanced privacy settings, allowing you to control who sees your posts and profile information. Consider whether it's necessary for everyone to have access to personal details like your phone number or recent activities. Adjust your settings accordingly to limit who can view such information.Additionally, don't overlook old or unused accounts on platforms like Facebook or MySpace, as they may still contain personal details and photos. If you no longer use these accounts, it's wise to back up any important data and then delete the accounts to prevent further exposure of your personal information.

Opt out of internet people search sites

Data brokers collect and sell personal information, making it accessible to various parties. This data can end up on people search websites, allowing anyone with a subscription to access details like your contact information, address, and connections. While data brokers must remove your information upon request, the process can be tedious and may require multiple requests. Additionally, your information can reappear if they obtain it again.

To combat this, consider using services like Incogni

Incogni, developed by the cybersecurity team at Surfshark, streamlines the process of reclaiming your online privacy by confronting data brokers on your behalf. Simply provide Incogni with basic information about yourself, and it will monitor for any attempts to sell your data.Incogni then takes over, working to remove your data from various data brokers and handling any disputes that may arise. You can track the progress of these removals through a dashboard provided by Incogni.To make the deal even sweeter, you can enjoy an exclusive 55% discount on an annual Incogni plan by using the code “9to5Google” when checking out.Make 2024 the year you reclaim your online privacy. For more tips on staying safe online and safeguarding your digital privacy, follow Incogni on X/Twitter.