Step by Step Data Broker Deletion Requests in California (2026)

California residents can now submit a single deletion request through the Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform (DROP), which became available on January 1, 2026. This option reaches all registered data brokers at once, thanks to the Delete Act. It covers brokers listed in the CPPA data brokers page registry. Data brokers register annually between January 1 and 31 via DROP. They must process these requests every 45 days starting August 1, 2026.

To begin, visit the CPPA data brokers page for the registry. Submit your request through DROP, and it forwards to all registered companies. Report any broker that ignores the request or violates the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) to the authorities for enforcement.

This guide covers the full process, from DROP submission to handling non-compliance, so you can protect your personal data effectively.

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting a Data Broker Deletion Request in California (2026)

The Delete Act simplifies privacy protections for California consumers with a centralized way to request deletions. Through DROP, you can target every registered data broker in one submission, avoiding individual contacts. Brokers check this mechanism at least every 45 days to handle requests, with only limited exceptions.

First, confirm your eligibility as a California resident under the Delete Act. This process applies to the entire CPPA registry.

Here's the practical walkthrough:

1. Verify your eligibility: Confirm you are a California resident. DROP serves Californians exercising rights under the Delete Act.

2. Access the CPPA registry: Go to the CPPA data brokers page to see the list of registered data brokers.

3. Navigate to DROP: From the registry or CPPA site, find the DROP platform, launched for consumer use on January 1, 2026. Data brokers already use it for registration.

4. Submit your deletion request: Enter your personal information as prompted. DROP forwards the request to every registered broker simultaneously.

5. Monitor processing: Brokers must check DROP every 45 days starting August 1, 2026, and delete your data unless an exception applies.

Keep a record of your DROP submission confirmation, as it provides proof for any later escalation.

Understand California's Data Broker Rules and the DROP Platform

Under the Delete Act, data brokers--companies that collect and sell personal data--must register with the CPPA and honor deletion requests. They register annually from January 1 to 31 through DROP, along with paying the annual fee. This keeps them accountable. The public registry appears on the CPPA data brokers page, listing compliant companies.

DROP handles both broker registrations and fees, as well as consumer opt-outs. Brokers must access this deletion mechanism every 45 days starting August 1, 2026, and process requests, subject to limited exceptions. In this way, consumers can remove their data from brokers on a large scale and limit exposure to unwanted sales.

Step-by-Step Process to Submit a Deletion Request via DROP

These steps ensure a straightforward submission:

1. Prepare your information: Gather details like your name, address, and email. No extra verification beyond standard fields is usually required.

2. Visit the official entry point: Start at the CPPA data brokers page and locate the DROP link.

3. Review the registry: Check the list to grasp the full scope--your request goes to all registered brokers.

4. Enter DROP and submit: Log in or create an account if needed. Complete the deletion form, confirming your California residency. DROP opened to consumers on January 1, 2026, for single requests to all registered data brokers at once.

5. Confirm receipt: DROP sends a submission notice and relays the request to brokers.

6. Follow up if needed: Monitor responses. Brokers handle requests in their 45-day cycles.

This process takes advantage of DROP's efficient design to cover the entire registry quickly. For California consumers, DROP stands as the primary starting point for opting out from registered data brokers.

What to Do If a Data Broker Ignores Your Request or Violates CCPA

DROP deletion requests are not the same as formal complaints. If a broker does not delete your data or breaks CCPA rules, reach out to enforcement authorities.

The Electronic Frontier Foundation recommends that Californians facing suspected violations report to those with enforcement authority. Keep records of your DROP submission. For non-responses, escalate through CPPA channels or relevant overseers.

Choosing the Right Path: DROP Deletion vs. Direct CPPA Complaint

Choose based on your needs: DROP for standard opt-outs, a complaint for violations. Most situations start with DROP, which efficiently reaches all registered brokers. File a CPPA complaint if a broker ignores the request, skips registration, or breaches CCPA--authorities can then apply penalties and require compliance.

Prioritize DROP to clear your data from the registry. Data brokers register by January 31 each year via DROP and process deletions every 45 days. Report non-compliance to authorities.

FAQ

How do I access the California data broker registry?

Visit the CPPA data brokers page for the public list of registered brokers.

When did the DROP platform launch for consumers?

DROP became available to consumers on January 1, 2026.

How often must data brokers process deletion requests?

Brokers must access the mechanism and process requests at least every 45 days starting August 1, 2026.

What happens if a data broker doesn't register or comply?

The CPPA can enforce actions, including penalties, data deletion orders, and sales prohibitions.

Can I use DROP if I'm not in California?

DROP targets California residents under the Delete Act.

What's the annual data broker registration deadline?

Data brokers must register and pay fees between January 1 and 31 via DROP.

To protect your data, submit a DROP request today via the CPPA site and retain confirmation for your records. Check back every few months to resubmit if needed.