What to Expect from PII and Social Imposter Removals

As part of your DigitalStakeout Protect subscription, you are entitled to proactive support for removing exposed personal information (PII) and taking down impersonation or harassing social profiles. This article explains how these removals work, typical timelines, and key limitations.

🗂️ What We Remove

1. Data Broker Removal (PII)

We submit formal removal requests to people-search and data broker websites that list your personal information (such as name, address, phone, and relatives).

✅ Submitted to legitimate public data broker sites
✅ Covers listings tied to names, emails, phone numbers, and known addresses
✅ Requests are submitted on your behalf, once you’ve completed the required authorization

2. Social Imposter Takedowns

We initiate takedown requests for unauthorized or impersonating profiles on major social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok) that match your identity or likeness.

✅ Applies to impersonation, doxxing, threats, or misrepresentation
✅ Limit: 3 takedown requests/month
✅ Additional removals available upon request (fee applies)

⏱️ How Long It Takes

⌛ Data Broker Removals

Typical Processing Time: 30–45 days (varies by site)
Some removals are immediate; others require manual verification and processing
Not all brokers respond the same way—some may re-list data over time

⌛ Social Takedowns

Typical Response Time: 24 hours to 10 business days
Depends on platform policies, enforcement backlog, and submission requirements
We escalate takedown requests as needed, but platform compliance is not guaranteed

⚠️ Limitations to Keep in Mind

❌ We cannot remove content from private individuals, blogs, or forums unless impersonation or legal violations are clearly established
❌ We cannot guarantee takedown success — platforms make the final decision
❌ We cannot force data brokers to delete info permanently — some may re-list data over time

🔐 Required Authorization

Before removals can be submitted, you must:

✅ Complete your DigitalStakeout Onboarding Form
✅ Sign the Authorization for Removal section
✅ Provide accurate and verifiable indicators

If this step is incomplete, we cannot legally act on your behalf.

💬 How to Use Your Takedowns

We monitor for impersonators and high-risk PII exposure
When something is discovered, it is either removed automatically (if possible) or flagged for action
You can request a takedown directly by contacting:
📧 [email protected]

🧾 Need More Than 3 Takedowns?

If your case requires more frequent action on removals outside of PII removals:

Additional takedowns are available at a flat hourly rate
Contact support to request additional remediation options or to upgrade to Defend for higher limits

For more details or to request a status update on any removal in progress, reach out to Support.