ClustrMaps Opt-Out

What is ClustrMaps?

ClustrMaps functions as a public records-style encyclopedia, allowing users to generate aggregate reports using only a name or address. Like most people search websites, ClustrMaps compiles information from multiple sources, including public agencies, commercial data providers, social media platforms, and other publicly accessible online accounts. These continuous data feeds allow records to be created and updated without direct verification from the individual involved.

Because ClustrMaps relies on public and third-party data, it does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of its reports. Errors can occur when public records are filed incorrectly, personal accounts contain outdated details, or data is mismatched between individuals with similar identifiers. ClustrMaps makes no promises regarding the correctness of the information displayed, and consumer reports may be partially inaccurate or entirely incorrect. While users can create an account to request corrections, many consumers choose instead to opt out of ClustrMaps altogether.

When a consumer opts out of ClustrMaps, the associated record is suppressed from internal searches on the site. However, the listing may continue to appear in external search engines such as Google for up to two weeks after a successful opt-out. Each ClustrMaps record requires a separate opt-out request. The guide below explains how to submit these requests, with step-by-step instructions, screenshots, and helpful resource links.

Requirements for a ClustrMaps Opt-Out

There are no personal eligibility requirements to opt out of ClustrMaps' public search results. All opt-out methods listed below are free, require no account creation, and typically take less than ten minutes to complete. Each process requires a valid profile URL and an accessible email address. Submitting the correct profile URL is essential, as ClustrMaps will not process an opt-out request without it. While an email address is required for verification and follow-up, it does not need to be your primary email.

Using an alternative email address is strongly recommended when interacting with any people search website. Alternative emails help protect personal cybersecurity, reduce targeted advertising, and prevent exposure of your primary contact information to data aggregators. Creating a separate email account takes only a few minutes and can significantly reduce the risk of scams, account compromise, data breaches, and other cyber-related threats.

What are My Opt-Out Options?

ClustrMaps outlines one official opt-out method in its privacy policy, but two approaches are known to work. Consumers may submit a removal request by emailing ClustrMaps' privacy team directly, though responses can take up to 30 days. This method is best for those who prefer written correspondence or need a documented paper trail.

The primary and most reliable opt-out method is ClustrMaps' online removal form, which is referenced throughout the site's Frequently Asked Questions and privacy policy. ClustrMaps does not offer a customer support phone line, so all opt-out requests must be submitted either through the online form or by email.

How to Opt-Out of ClustrMaps: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Obtain the Profile URL Necessary for Opting Out

As noted above, submitting an opt-out request to ClustrMaps requires a specific profile URL, even though this requirement is not clearly stated in its privacy policy. Without the correct URL, ClustrMaps may be unable to identify which record should be removed, leading to delays or rejected requests. Anticipating this requirement and providing the profile URL upfront is the most effective way to avoid unnecessary opt-out roadblocks.

To obtain the profile URL, begin by visiting ClustrMaps.com and running a search for the relevant name or address. Once the correct record is located, open the individual profile page and copy the full URL from the browser's address bar. This URL will be required for all opt-out methods outlined below and ensures the request is processed accurately and efficiently.

Step One

After opening the landing page, ensure the search category is set to People. Enter the name associated with the record you want to suppress. Records not directly associated with the person submitting the opt-out request may still be suppressed, but additional identity verification may be required. For this guide, a name was entered, and the blue Find button was selected.

The results page will display records that may be associated with the searched name. If ClustrMaps has a record for the individual, it should appear here. Common names may return a large number of results. In those cases, refine the search using advanced options, starting with the state filter located on the right side of the page.

Step Two

Locate the record you want to suppress on the results page. Once identified, right-click the corresponding View Details button and select Copy from the menu. This copied link is the profile URL and can be pasted into other locations. A valid profile URL will typically follow a format similar to clustrmaps.com/person/LastName-IDNumber

Email Your Request to the ClustrMaps Privacy Team

Consumers who prefer to avoid using the ClustrMaps website can submit their opt-out request by email. Requests made on behalf of another individual require a photo ID to be attached for verification. All privacy-related requests must include the applicable profile URL, as outlined above. Use the steps provided to collect the correct URL or URLs, then paste them into the email. The template below can be copied into an email draft, with the highlighted sections replaced by the appropriate personal information.

Complete the Opt-Out Form Process Online

For most consumers, using the online opt-out form is the fastest and most effective way to remove a record from ClustrMaps. Some users who initially submit requests by email may find their requests redirected to this form. Regardless of the situation, the most time-consuming part of the process is locating the correct profile URL. Before continuing, complete Step One and Step Two outlined above to obtain the applicable profile URL, then return here to proceed.

Step Three

Once you have the correct profile URL, open the ClustrMaps Opt-Out Form in a new browser tab. Enter your full name and a preferably alternative email address into the required fields. Right-click inside the URL field and paste the copied profile URL. Next, enter a residential address for verification, including house number, street name, city, state, and zip code. Be careful when entering address details, as the internal system may return an error if the formatting is incorrect. When all required fields are completed, click the blue Next Step button at the bottom of the page.

After submission, the page will refresh automatically and display one or more lists containing assumed data elements associated with the record. Each item in these lists must be reviewed and selected. Leaving any item unchecked may allow the record to reappear in association with remaining data points. For example, if a phone number is left unchecked, a future search using that number could cause the record to surface again, even if other details are suppressed.

Step Four

Select every applicable checkbox on the left side of the page. As items are selected, the boxes will turn blue and the corresponding details will be crossed out. Once all items are selected, click the blue Apply button to submit the request.

At this stage, two outcomes are possible. If all information was entered correctly, the user will typically see a 'Success' confirmation page. If the process times out or if inaccurate information is submitted, a 404 error page may appear. If an error page is shown, treat it as a reset of the process. Close the browser completely, reopen it, and restart from the beginning by obtaining the profile URL again. Pay close attention to address formatting, as the system often prefers abbreviated address terms rather than fully spelled words.

Return to Run a Verification Search

After an opt-out request is accepted, it may take up to two weeks for the record to disappear from all search results. Once confirmation is received, return to ClustrMaps and run a new search using the same information to verify removal. If the request was successful, the previously associated record should no longer appear. ClustrMaps may delay or reject privacy requests from users outside California, as California residents are granted specific data privacy rights that private entities are required to honor.

In some cases, ClustrMaps may neither accept nor formally reject a request, effectively ignoring it. If this occurs, consumers should resubmit the request until it is processed. To maintain ongoing privacy protection, it is recommended to return annually and request suppression of newly released public information. This guide reflects the opt-out procedures outlined in ClustrMaps' privacy policy.