Whitepages gets your information by aggregating publicly available records, third-party data providers, social media outlets, USPS change-of-address forms, and user-contributed data, according to its own privacy disclosures. If you are concerned about your privacy exposure, understanding how does whitepages get your information is the first step toward controlling what appears in a listing and deciding whether to opt out.
How does Whitepages get your information: Direct answer
Whitepages employs web-crawling technology to scan websites, forums, and other online platforms for publicly available information. User-contributed address books are a source of data. The company states it brings together publicly available information to help users find identity data and property intelligence in the United States.
Public records and directories
Public records are a foundational source for Whitepages. The company aggregates government-maintained records and public directories, which typically include property records, court records, and vital records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates. Public filings are a source. By pulling from these sources, Whitepages can compile a broad database of contact details and associated personal information. Public directories also contribute phone numbers and addresses that are already accessible to anyone who knows where to look.
Third-party data providers
Whitepages also relies on third-party data providers to expand and enrich its database. Its California privacy notice states that it obtains information from data licensors, marketing companies, affiliated entities, and other consumers who use its products. Data from marketing surveys is a source. Surveys and questionnaires are another documented source, meaning you may provide details indirectly through a partner company without ever visiting Whitepages directly. These third-party sources allow Whitepages to fill gaps in public records and build more complete profiles.
Social media and USPS change-of-address forms
Whitepages' own blog confirms that it receives data from social media outlets and USPS change-of-address forms. Social media profiles can supply names, locations, and other publicly shared details, while USPS change-of-address forms provide a reliable record of where someone currently lives. The company also accepts user-updated information submitted directly, which means individuals can add or correct their own details. This mix of sources helps keep listings current, but it also means your data can appear even if you never interacted with Whitepages.
What Whitepages does with your information
Whitepages describes itself as a source of identity data and property intelligence used to help people connect, transact, and prevent fraud. That means the data is used for looking up phone numbers and customer service lines, verifying identities, and supporting background checks. Whitepages offers a service called 'Identity Verification' which allows businesses to confirm the identity of their customers. Whitepages provides a 'Background Check' feature enabling users to access public records and gain insights into an individual's criminal history and employment background. The company also offers caller identification services that help users screen unknown calls. Whitepages offers targeted advertising solutions to businesses using the data at its disposal.
How to control or remove your information
Whitepages provides a consumer rights request flow and an online opt-out tool for listings. If you want to remove your information, you can use the official opt-out process available on the site. For step-by-step removal instructions, you can follow the opt-out process outlined on the official consumer rights page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Whitepages only use public records?
No. Whitepages says it also uses third-party providers and other third-party sources, including data licensors, marketing companies, and affiliated entities.
Does Whitepages use social media or USPS change-of-address data?
Yes.
Can data be removed through the official site?
Yes.
How long does it take for information to be removed from Whitepages?
It typically takes a few days for information to be removed from Whitepages after the opt-out request has been submitted.
Is there a fee to remove my information from Whitepages?
Whitepages offers a free opt-out process for individuals who want to remove their information from the platform.
