Why Does Data Broker Scan and Removal Take So Long?
Data broker scanning and removal is an ongoing process, and it's completely normal for it to take longer than expected. Our process is designed to locate your information on data broker databases and submit removal requests on your behalf — and it doesn't stop after the first scan.
⏱️ Initial Scan & First Removals
The initial phase typically takes 2–5 business days. During this time, we:
- Scan data broker sites to identify where your personal information may appear.
- Send the first round of removal requests on your behalf.
This is just the beginning of the protection process.
🔍 Why Some Removals Take Longer
Not all data brokers work the same way. Delays can happen for several reasons:
- Different response times: Each data broker has its own process and timeline for handling removal requests. Some are faster than others, which is why this takes time.
- Complex data sharing: Your information may exist across multiple databases, requiring confirmations from each one.
- Manual reviews: Some brokers require extra verification before processing a removal.
- Volume: We work with nearly 300 data brokers, and removal requests are processed thoroughly for each one to ensure nothing is missed.
🔄 Continuous Monitoring & Protection
Data removal is ongoing because new sources can appear over time. That's why we continuously scan and submit new requests throughout your subscription:
- We constantly monitor for new exposures.
- We regularly add new data brokers to improve your coverage.
- As our protection expands, you may occasionally see more brokers appear in your app.
This does not mean your situation has gotten worse. It means our system is finding and working to remove your information from more sources than before.
📋 What You Need to Know
- Our process is already actively running on your behalf.
- Each broker has its own timeline — some comply within days, others take longer.
- You don't need to take any action — even when the status shows "In Progress," our systems are working behind the scenes.
- We continuously scan and submit new requests throughout your subscription because data brokers can re-acquire information over time.
📊 Tracking Your Data Removal Progress
You can check the status of each individual data broker directly in the app at any time. Each broker will show one of the following statuses:
Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
In progress | Removal request sent, awaiting response from this broker |
Monitoring | Removal processed, we're actively watching for reappearance |
Completed | Removal request processed by this broker |
You may also see a moving circle indicator on the Home screen — this means we're actively working on your protection. Even when there are no visible changes, our systems are continuously scanning, monitoring, and submitting removal requests behind the scenes.
🛡️ Protection Percentage on the Home Screen
The protection percentage shown on the Home screen is not directly tied to data broker removal progress. Instead, it reflects the number of protection features currently active on your device, such as:
- Identity Protection
- SMS Protection
- Call Protection
These features work together to protect you in real time, alongside the data removal process.
For more details on how your protection percentage is calculated, see this article.
Updated on: 15/05/2026
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