The Complete Privacy Checklist for Public Servants

Everything in this guide, in the order to do it.

Week 1: Foundation

1. Create a dedicated privacy email address.
2. Set up a tracking spreadsheet.
3. Freeze your credit at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
4. Freeze your files at Innovis, ChexSystems, NCTUE, and LexisNexis.
5. If on active duty, place an active duty alert and enroll in free credit monitoring.
6. Turn on two-factor authentication for email, banking, and social media.

Weeks 2–4: Inventory and removal

1. Search your name, phone numbers, addresses, and email addresses.
2. Record every site that lists you.
3. Submit opt-outs, starting with sites that show your home address.
4. Send written deletion and suppression requests where opt-outs fail.
5. If you live in California, file a request through DROP.
6. Request removal of contact information from search results.

Month 2: Records and household

1. Check whether you qualify for your state's address confidentiality program.
2. Review property, voter, and business records for your home address.
3. Run the same process for your spouse and adult children.
4. Freeze your minor children's credit.

Ongoing

1. Re-check every site on your list every three months.
2. Resubmit requests for any listing that reappears, citing your earlier request.
3. Keep all confirmations and screenshots.
4. Review social media settings twice a year.