Can You Really Disappear Online?

Is it even possible to disappear from the internet? Wirecutter writer Max Eddy explains how he tried to do it, why it’s so hard, and what steps you can take to take control of the information that’s out there. Plus, some of the surprising sentimental hurdles he had to overcome during this project.

Things we recommend:

Find websites that have exposed your email in a data breach: Have I Been PwnedFind google results with your personal information in them: Google’s Results About You toolThe best password manager: 1PasswordThe best data removal service: DeleteMeCreate masked emails using Apple’s tool or Google’s toolAutomatically delete X posts using CydOn Facebook, retroactively limit who can see your posts, prevent search engine and image search of your content or pull up a log of your interactions on the platform, which lets you delete comments that have become problematic with age.

Additional reading:

I Tried, and Failed, to Disappear From the Internet7 Simple Ways to Protect Your Digital PrivacyThe 2 Best Password Managers of 2025The 2 Best Two-Factor Authentication Apps of 2025

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Find edited transcripts for each episode here: The Wirecutter Show Podcast

 

The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.

• No. of episodes: 61
• Latest episode: 2025-07-04
• Education Society & Culture How To

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