Templates
Templates: Deletion and Suppression Requests
A clear written request gets better results than a web form alone. Adapt this template to your situation.
General deletion and suppression request
Subject: Request for Deletion, Opt-Out, and Suppression of Personal Information > To the Privacy Team: I am writing to request that your company (1) delete all personal information you hold about me; (2) opt me out of any sale or sharing of my personal information; (3) add my identifiers to a suppression list so that my information is not re-collected or re-published; and (4) confirm in writing that these steps have been completed, including the names of any third parties to which my information was disclosed. The listings I located are: [URLs]. To identify me, please use: [name; city and state; the minimum information needed]. I make this request under [cite applicable law, for example your state's consumer privacy law, or the company's own published privacy policy]. Please respond within the time required by law. Sincerely, [Name]
Adapting the template
- Cite the right law. Use your state's privacy law if it applies to the company. If none applies, rely on the company's own privacy policy.
- Give only what is needed. Provide the minimum information required to locate your record.
- Use your privacy email and, if you have one, a substitute address.
- Keep a copy with the date sent.
If there is no response
- Send a follow-up referencing your original request and date.
- Complain to your state attorney general's consumer protection office.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
This template is general information, not legal advice.