Cleaning Up Your Data Clutter to Improve Security

Personal data collection has exploded in the digital age. Most of us likely have far more digital data associated with our names than we realize – from online accounts to purchase histories and more. While some retention of personal data is necessary in our online lives, excess data collection can create security risks and clutter that impacts our privacy. By taking stock of our digital profiles and being proactive about data management, we can help protect our identities and information.

Take an Inventory of Your Online Accounts

The first step is gaining awareness. Many of us sign up for online accounts without thinking much beyond getting access to whatever app, service, or website we need in the moment. Over years of normal online activities, those accounts can really add up.

To get a handle on just how many accounts may be out there, conduct an inventory:

• Make a list of any sites or services you use that require an account. This may include social media platforms, shopping sites, subscription services, forums, and more. Don’t forget old accounts you may no longer use actively.

• Search your inboxes for account verification emails. These often have the site name in the subject line and can jog your memory about accounts you’ve signed up for.

• Check app permissions on your mobile devices to see which apps have access to personal data.

• Look through your browser settings and auto-fill data to see saved passwords and usernames.

The results of this inventory may surprise you. Most people have accounts spread across dozens or even hundreds of sites.

Identify Accounts to Delete

Once you have a thorough list, decide which accounts are no longer necessary. Ask yourself:

• When did I last login or use this account? If it’s been over a year, you likely don’t need it.

• Does this service offer any unique value, or is it redundant? For example, you may only regularly use one or two social media platforms.

• Am I getting any benefit from having an account with this company? Consider deleting accounts from sites you rarely purchase from.

• Are there privacy concerns with this company or service? Remove accounts from sites with questionable data practices.

• Are there multiple old email accounts I no longer need? Close them down.

Take your time going through each account one-by-one. Don’t rush this process. The goal is to thoughtfully prune away data clutter.

Delete Unused Accounts Completely

Once you’ve decided on accounts to remove, don’t just let them languish. Fully delete each one. Simply abandoning an account means your data will remain on company servers indefinitely.

To properly delete an online account:

• Log in first. This provides the necessary verification it’s really you requesting the deletion.

• Look for account deletion or deactivation options. Many sites have settings specifically for closing an account.

• Contact customer service if needed. For some sites, you may have to contact a representative to fully delete an account.

• Opt out of marketing communications. Even deleted accounts may still receive emails or texts unless you specifically unsubscribe.

• Remove personal info like saved addresses and payment methods.

• Check back later to confirm the account no longer exists.

Taking this extra step to fully delete each unneeded account reduces your overall digital footprint.

Limit New Account Creation

As you cull old accounts, also be cautious about accumulating new ones. Consider whether creating accounts is absolutely necessary before signing up for new services. When possible:

• Read without an account. Many sites and news outlets allow limited access to content without logging in. View what you can before creating an account.

• Use private browsing. When you do need to create an account, use a private or incognito browser window. Avoid saving login info on that site for future convenience.

• Create temporary email addresses. Some email providers like Temp Mail allow you to generate temporary addresses to use when creating mandatory accounts.

• Use alias sign-in services. These tools like Sign in with Apple allow account creation without handing over personal email addresses.

With intentional practices, you can avoid amassing unnecessary data profiles attached to your name.

Regularly Review and Prune Accounts

Like decluttering a physical space, cleaning up your digital life takes ongoing effort. Set reminders on your calendar to regularly review online accounts and continue pruning as needed. Maintaining this habit is essential to controlling your data footprint and protecting your privacy.

The time investment is worth it. By being proactive about your online accounts, you can reduce vulnerabilities, protect your identity, and take back control of your personal data. The result is both better security and less digital clutter in your life.