Remove Your Information From the Web
Starting January 1, 2026, the California Delete Act allows for California Residents to use the Delete, Request and Opt-Out (DROP) platform to remove their information from the internet. This new year, you can take control of your data and help to remove information about yourself being collecting and sold by data brokers. It's free and easy to do.
How Can I Sign Up for DROP?
- You must be a California Resident and be able to verify that you live in California.
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Provide basic information about yourself that you want included in your delete request. You get to determine how much information you feel comfortable providing.
- Learn more about Unique Identifiers that can be provided to DROP to get more specific about the data they delete.
- To find out more information and to submit your request, you can visit the DROP website: https://privacy.ca.gov/drop/
What are Data Brokers?
Data brokers are companies that buy and sell your information without your consent. The information that data brokers collect ranges from your email to your social security number. They collect this information from companies that you use or interact with directly, like grocery stores. Data brokers sell this information to advertisers, political campaigns and potentially more malicious groups.
Starting August 1, 2026, data brokers must delete your data within 90 days if you submit a DROP request.
How Will DROP protect my information?
The data that is collected by DROP will be immediately encrypted and only used to complete your request. Data Brokers will receive this information as hashed data which is near impossible to decode.
SJPL and Privacy
Your Right to Library also includes your right to privacy. The San José Public Library is committed to protecting the data of our patrons, and helping you stay informed about this topic. If you are interested in learning more, check out the following resources:
Blog: Data Privacy Day: Tips and Recommendations to Keep You Safe
Toolkits: Virtual Privacy Lab
Books:
The Age of Surveillance Capitalism
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