How Does Spokeo Collect Data?

Spokeo is a data aggregation and people search website that compiles personal details from multiple public and private sources. It provides contact information, addresses, phone numbers, social media profiles, and background details to users looking to locate individuals. But how does Spokeo obtain this information?
Below, we break down the key ways Spokeo collects data and what you can do to protect your personal information from being exposed.
Where Does Spokeo Get Its Data?
Spokeo does not generate its own data—instead, it pulls information from public databases, third-party data brokers, and online sources. Here are some of its primary sources:
1. Public Records & Government Databases
Spokeo collects data from federal, state, and local government sources, including:
✔ Property and real estate records (homeownership, property values, tax records)
✔ Court records (civil cases, bankruptcies, liens, divorces)
✔ Business registrations (LLC ownership, corporate filings)
✔ Voter registration databases
2. Data Broker Partnerships
Spokeo purchases bulk data from third-party data brokers that specialize in collecting and selling consumer information. These brokers aggregate personal details from online and offline sources, including:
✔ Marketing databases (used for targeted ads)
✔ Consumer behavior tracking
✔ Subscription services and online directories
3. Social Media & Online Activity
Spokeo scrapes publicly available social media profiles to collect:
✔ Profile names and usernames
✔ Profile pictures and bios
✔ Employment and education history
✔ Posts and interactions on public pages
4. Whitepages & Phone Directories
Spokeo compiles phone numbers and addresses from:
✔ Online phonebooks
✔ Business directories
✔ Publicly listed residential contact details
5. Data From Other People Search Websites
Spokeo cross-references its records with other people search engines such as Whitepages, Intelius, and BeenVerified. If your details appear on multiple platforms, Spokeo is likely pulling data from those sources as well.
Why Is Spokeo’s Data Sometimes Incorrect or Outdated?
Since Spokeo collects data from third-party sources, the accuracy of its records depends on how frequently those sources are updated. Here are some reasons Spokeo’s listings may be incomplete or incorrect:
🔹 Old public records – Spokeo may display outdated addresses or phone numbers that are still in public databases.
🔹 Merging of similar names – If multiple people have the same name and similar details, their records may be incorrectly combined.
🔹 Inconsistent data across sources – If two databases conflict on a detail (e.g., address changes), Spokeo may display the older or incorrect entry.
How Can You Remove Your Information from Spokeo?
If you want to remove your information from Spokeo.com, follow this step-by-step opt-out guide to protect your privacy: DeleteMyInfo’s Spokeo Opt Out Guide
Don’t have time to remove yourself from this site?
DeleteMyInfo is here to protect YOU.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Spokeo legally allowed to collect and display my data?
Yes, Spokeo compiles information from legally available sources, including public records and third-party data brokers. However, you have the right to opt out and request removal of your details.
2. Why does Spokeo have my information if I never signed up?
Spokeo collects publicly available data from government records, marketing databases, and online directories. It does not require your consent to display publicly accessible information.
3. Does opting out of Spokeo remove my data from the internet?
No, opting out only removes your data from Spokeo’s website. Your information may still exist on other people search sites and data broker platforms. You should opt out from multiple data brokers for better privacy protection.
4. How long does Spokeo take to process an opt-out request?
Spokeo typically removes listings within 24 to 48 hours after completing the email verification step.
5. Can my information reappear on Spokeo after opting out?
Yes, Spokeo frequently updates its database, and your information may resurface if it is re-collected from public sources. If this happens, you may need to repeat the opt-out process.
How Deletemyinfo Can Protect Your Information From Data Brokers?
DeleteMyInfo is a powerful service that can help you take control of your online privacy. By using this service, you can remove your personal information from data broker websites and prevent it from being sold to advertisers or other third parties. DeleteMyInfo employs advanced techniques to locate and delete your information from various databases, ensuring that your private data remains private.
This service regularly monitors the internet for any traces of your information and promptly removes it if found. With DeleteMyInfo, you can regain control over your personal data and reduce the risk of it falling into the wrong hands. By understanding the importance of online privacy and utilizing the services of DeleteMyInfo, you can protect yourself from the invasive practices of data brokers and safeguard your sensitive information.