Incogni vs. DeleteMe: Which Data Removal Service Wins?
▼ Summary
– Data removal services like Incogni and DeleteMe emerged due to the exploitation of consumer data by brokers, with little legal protection initially.
– Incogni, founded in 2021, focuses on automated data removal from over 420 brokers, while DeleteMe, launched in 2010, emphasizes a hybrid human-automation approach.
– Incogni offers rapid, automated removal processes and spam call reduction, while DeleteMe provides free scans, DIY guides, and custom requests included in all plans.
– DeleteMe is expanding into vehicle data privacy and new projects like Dark Web monitoring, while Incogni plans mobile apps and improved custom removal services.
– Both services are similarly priced (starting around $8–$9/month) and prioritize consumer privacy, but their approaches and specializations differ.
Protecting your personal information online has never been more critical, with data brokers constantly collecting and selling private details. Two leading services, Incogni and DeleteMe, offer solutions to reclaim your digital privacy, but which one fits your needs best?
Data removal services emerged as a response to the growing trade of personal information by data brokers. Incogni, launched in 2021 by Surfshark, and DeleteMe, established in 2010 by Abine Privacy, stand out as top choices for consumers looking to scrub their digital footprints. Both services specialize in removing personally identifiable information (PII) from broker databases and people-search sites, though their approaches differ.
With pricing nearly identical, Incogni at $8.29/month (annual plan) and DeleteMe at $8.71/month (two-year plan), the decision often comes down to features, automation, and additional protections.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Incogni | DeleteMe |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Surfshark (Netherlands) | Abine (Massachusetts, US) |
| Automation | Highly automated | Hybrid (automation + human review) |
| Custom Requests | Available on Unlimited plans | Included in all tiers |
| Mobile Apps | Coming soon | Available now |
| Free Scan | No | Yes |
| Special Focus | Data brokers | Broader privacy solutions |
When Incogni Is the Better Choice
- Targeted Data Broker Removal
- Speed Through Automation
- User-Friendly Experience
- Reduced Spam CallsFuture Plans: Incogni is developing mobile apps and expanding beyond traditional brokers to tackle AI-driven data harvesting.
When DeleteMe Stands Out
- Beyond Basic Broker Scans
- Human Oversight
- Free Tools & DIY Guides
- Vehicle Privacy ProtectionFuture Plans: The company is enhancing Dark Web monitoring, expanding globally, and improving identity masking to prevent future data leaks.
Final Considerations
Both services offer strong security with AES-256 encryption, but your choice depends on whether speed or thoroughness matters more. For those seeking alternatives, services like Kanary or PrivacyDuck also provide solid options, though Incogni and DeleteMe remain industry leaders.
Ultimately, reclaiming your privacy starts with removing your data from the hands of brokers. Whether through automation or expert intervention, both services deliver results, just in different ways.
(Source: ZDNET)
