Open-source tool scrubs 500+ data broker sites monthly—150 GitHub stars in 2 weeks

Developer Stephen Thorn has launched an open-source tool named 'auto-identity-remove' that automates opt-out requests from over 500 data broker and people-search sites. Hosted on GitHub, the tool operates on a monthly schedule to erase personal data from platforms such as Spokeo, Whitepages, and BeenVerified. Since its release, the project has attracted 150 stars and 5 forks, reflecting growing interest in automated privacy management ¹.

'Auto-identity-remove' is built for macOS and leverages JavaScript to automate the opt-out workflow. The GitHub repository specifies that the tool targets more than 500 data broker sites, including leading people-search platforms. Users can set the tool to run automatically, allowing continuous removal of personal data without manual effort, which simplifies ongoing privacy maintenance ¹.

Stephen Thorn explained in the project's README that the tool aims to ease the tedious process of opting out from data brokers. He noted, “Removing your personal information from these sites manually can take hours, and the process often resets after a few months.” The tool addresses this challenge by automating the opt-out steps, reducing time and effort for users ¹.

The GitHub repository contains key files such as 'brokers.js,' which enumerates the targeted data broker sites, and 'generic-runner.js,' which manages the automation logic. Additionally, a 'config.example.json' file allows users to customize their opt-out preferences. Being open-source, the project invites developers to contribute or modify the code to expand its capabilities ¹.

Data brokers collect and trade personal information including names, addresses, phone numbers, and financial details, often without explicit consent. Platforms like Spokeo, Whitepages, and BeenVerified compile this data from public records, social media, and other sources, making it accessible to marketers, scammers, and third parties, raising privacy concerns ¹.

The tool’s monthly execution schedule counters the frequent practice of data brokers re-listing personal information shortly after removal. By automating opt-out requests regularly, users can maintain privacy without repeated manual submissions. The README highlights the necessity of consistent opt-outs to prevent data from accumulating again on these platforms ¹.

Following its release, the project gained traction on forums like Hacker News, where users commended its potential to ease online privacy management. The repository’s 150 stars and 5 forks indicate strong community engagement. Developers have started submitting contributions, proposing enhancements and additional features to improve the tool ¹.

Users need to supply personal details such as name, address, and email for the tool to locate and remove their data from broker databases. The repository’s 'setup.js' file guides users through initial configuration, ensuring accurate targeting of personal information across multiple sites. While optimized for macOS, the open-source nature allows adaptation for other platforms ¹.