# Make your address harder to find.

Understand what a people-search opt-out can change.

By Avenvale · Sources checked 2026-09-23
Canonical: https://avenvale.app/training/identity/public-listings
Language: English

People-search sites combine information from many sources. You can request removal through a site’s opt-out process, but removal is not the same as erasing every public record.

## Try this

1. Find the listing that actually matches you. Record its link without copying sensitive details into public notes.
2. Use the site’s official opt-out process. Review any identity-verification request before sharing more information.
3. Save the confirmation and check again later. New or changed records can make information reappear.

## Practice scenario (fictional)

One site confirms removal. Is your address now gone everywhere?

1. Yes, that removes all public records
2. No, other sites and public records may still show it

Safer response: No, other sites and public records may still show it

An opt-out applies to that site’s process. Other sources may remain, and listings can return. Track individual requests instead of treating one confirmation as total deletion.

Lesson completion records practice, not a scan or certification.

## Official guidance

- [FTC · People-search sites](https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-people-search-sites-sell-your-information)