Manage Private Reports

How to cancel private reports and stop recurring charges

What is private reports and why you might want to cancel

Private Reports (operated by Infomatics LLC) is a people-search and background information service that aggregates public records and directory listings into searchable profiles. You may have signed up for a trial offer-often advertised as $1 for 2 days-only to discover recurring monthly charges of approximately $49.82 hitting your bank account after the trial ends. Many consumers report unexpected billing and difficulty canceling, which is why Stopee exists: to help you take control of your subscriptions and understand your legal rights.

Understanding the subscription model

Private Reports uses a negative-option billing structure, meaning you agree to recurring charges that continue automatically until you actively cancel. The typical sequence is straightforward: you pay a low trial fee, then face monthly renewal charges without an equally simple cancellation path. This business model is legal under federal law, but companies must follow strict rules about disclosure and ease of cancellation-rules we'll cover in detail below.

Common reasons consumers cancel private reports

You may want to cancel because you discovered the service charges your credit card without clear reminder notices, you no longer need the background reports, or you found the information available through free public sources. Some consumers cancel after realizing they were charged without giving explicit consent to the recurring subscription. Others simply changed their mind about the value. Whatever your reason, Stopee can guide you through every step and help you protect your financial information.

Your consumer rights under federal law

Federal law protects you when companies use negative-option billing-here's what you need to know to cancel effectively.

The federal trade commission's rules on negative-option billing

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces the Negative Option Rule, which requires companies to obtain clear, affirmative consent before charging you for a subscription. The rule states that companies must make the material terms-including the trial price, regular price, frequency, and duration-clear and conspicuous before you agree. Most importantly, companies must provide a simple mechanism for cancellation that takes no more effort than enrollment. If Private Reports made you jump through hoops to cancel while signing up was easy, that violates FTC rules.

As of late 2024, the FTC strengthened this rule further, emphasizing that cancellation must be accessible through the same channel you used to sign up. If you enrolled online, you must be able to cancel online. If the company requires you to print forms, mail them in, or call during limited hours while offering online enrollment, that's a red flag and potential violation.

State automatic renewal laws and your protection

Depending on your state of residence, additional protections may apply. California's Automatic Renewal Law (ARL), for example, requires explicit acknowledgment of renewal terms and imposes strict cancellation requirements. Other states including Illinois, New York, and Texas have similar statutes. These laws give you leverage: if Private Reports doesn't honor a cancellation request, you can file a complaint with your state attorney general's consumer protection division.

Right to refund under federal law

You have a right to request a refund if you can show that the company violated disclosure or consent rules. The FTC expects companies to refund charges within 30 days of receiving a refund request, especially if you canceled within the trial period or shortly after. Document everything-screenshots of the original offer, confirmation emails, billing statements-because evidence is your strongest tool when requesting a refund.

Methods for canceling private reports

Private Reports offers multiple cancellation paths; your best option depends on how you enrolled and your comfort level with each method.

Online removal request via the opt-out portal

This is the method Private Reports officially recommends and the one that leaves the clearest digital trail. You will submit a removal request directly through their opt-out page, which automatically documents your cancellation request and generates a confirmation email.

Telephone cancellation

You can cancel by calling Private Reports' customer service line at (833) 783-0920. This method works if you prefer speaking to a representative and want immediate confirmation, though phone calls leave less documentation than written requests.

Written cancellation by mail

If both online and phone methods fail or you prefer a paper trail, you can send a certified letter requesting cancellation. We will provide the mailing address and exact language to use later in this guide.

Step-by-step cancellation guide for private reports

Follow these precise steps to cancel your subscription and generate proof of cancellation that protects you if billing disputes arise.

Canceling online through the opt-out portal

The online method is fastest and creates automatic documentation, making it the recommended first step.

1. Visit the Private Reports opt-out page at privatereports.com/remove (or navigate to their website and search for "remove my listing" or "opt out")
   • Open the page in a web browser on your computer or phone
   • Do not use a public WiFi network if you're concerned about privacy
2. Search for your listing using your full name
   • Enter your first and last name exactly as it appears on your account
   • If you have a common name, you may see multiple results; select the listing that matches your address
3. Click on your listing to select it
   • Verify that the address and any phone numbers match your personal information
   • If the listing shows information you do not recognize, note it-this may indicate identity concerns worth investigating
4. Complete the removal request form with accurate information
   • Full legal name (matching your ID)
   • Email address (use the email associated with your Private Reports account)
   • Complete mailing address
   • Phone number
   • Any additional information the form requests
5. Complete the CAPTCHA verification to prove you are human
6. Submit the form
   • Take a screenshot of the submission confirmation page
   • Note the date and time of submission
7. Check your email (including spam/promotions folders) for a verification email from Private Reports
   • This email will contain a confirmation link
   • Click the link to finalize your cancellation request
   • Save this email as proof of cancellation

Pro tip: Take screenshots at every stage-the initial form, the submission confirmation, and the verification email. Forward all of these to yourself with the date and time noted, or save them as a PDF file. This documentation becomes crucial if you need to dispute a charge later.

Canceling by phone

Telephone cancellation is immediate but requires you to create your own documentation.

1. Call (833) 783-0920 during customer service hours
   • Ask what hours the line operates; note this information
   • If you reach voicemail, leave a message with your request but do not rely on this alone
2. When you reach a representative, clearly state: "I want to cancel my Private Reports subscription effective immediately."
   • Provide your full name and the email address associated with your account
   • Do not accept offers to downgrade, pause, or reduce the service
3. Ask for a cancellation confirmation number
   • Write it down during the call
   • Repeat it back to the representative to confirm accuracy
4. Request that the representative email you a written cancellation confirmation
   • This creates a paper trail
   • If they refuse or say they cannot email confirmation, document what they said (date, time, representative name if available)
5. End the call and immediately send yourself an email summarizing the call
   • Include the date, time, confirmation number, and representative name if provided
   • Note what was said about future billing

Warning: Do not assume a phone conversation equals cancellation if you receive no written confirmation. Representatives may make data entry errors, or your cancellation request may not reach the billing department. Written confirmation is your safety net.

Canceling by certified mail

Use this method if online and phone cancellation fail, or if you want maximum legal protection.

1. Obtain the current mailing address for Private Reports cancellation requests (see the contact information section at the end of this guide)
2. Write a cancellation letter on plain paper or your personal letterhead
   • Date the letter
   • Address it to the cancellation department
   • Include your full legal name, email address, mailing address, and phone number
   • State: "I hereby request cancellation of my Private Reports subscription effective immediately. I understand that no further charges should be made to my account after this date. I am sending this letter via certified mail with return receipt to document this request."
   • Sign and date the letter
3. Make two copies of the letter
4. Go to your local Post Office and send the letter via Certified Mail with Return Receipt Requested
   • This service costs approximately $8 and provides proof of delivery
   • Keep the receipt and the return receipt card when it arrives
5. File the copies and receipts in a folder labeled "Private Reports Cancellation"
   • Take photos or scans for backup
   • Do not discard these documents for at least one year

Pro tip: Certified mail is not glamorous, but it is legally airtight. If Private Reports claims it never received your cancellation request, you have proof of delivery. This evidence is invaluable if you file a complaint with the FTC or your state attorney general.

What happens after you cancel

Cancellation doesn't always mean immediate relief from charges-here's what to expect and how to monitor your account.

Stopping future charges

Once you cancel, Private Reports should stop billing your account on the next renewal date. If you cancel mid-cycle, you will not be refunded for the current billing period unless you meet refund criteria (see the refund section below). Monitor your bank or credit card statements for 30 to 60 days to confirm that no further charges appear. If you see another charge after cancellation, contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately and dispute the charge-that is a separate right from canceling with the merchant.

Verification and account deletion

After canceling your subscription, your personal information may remain in Private Reports' database for compliance or legal reasons, but you should no longer see charges. If you want your data removed entirely, submit a separate data deletion request or contact Stopee for guidance on invoking state privacy laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).

Monitoring your credit and identity

Because Private Reports aggregates sensitive personal data, consider placing a credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to prevent unauthorized credit inquiries. You can freeze your credit for free at each bureau's website. This step takes about 10 minutes and protects you if your information was compromised or misused while your account was active. Stopee recommends this precaution for all people-search platform cancellations.

Refund options and how to request one

You may qualify for a refund depending on when you cancel and why you're requesting one.

Refunds within the trial period

If you cancel within the trial period (typically 2 days after enrollment), you should not be charged the recurring fee. If you were charged, request an immediate refund. Contact Private Reports within 14 days of the charge and explain that you canceled during the trial. Include your cancellation confirmation number (if you have one) or screenshots of your cancellation request.

Refunds after the trial period

If you cancel after the trial ends but still wish to request a refund, you can argue that Private Reports violated FTC disclosure or consent rules. Frame your request as follows: "I am requesting a refund of the charge dated [date], amount [amount], because the renewal terms were not clearly disclosed at the time of enrollment. I did not give explicit consent to the recurring subscription." Send this request via email to the cancellation address or via certified mail. Include all documentation: original promotional offer, confirmation emails, and billing statements.

Disputing charges with your bank

If Private Reports refuses a refund, you have a right to dispute the charge with your credit card issuer or bank. This is called a chargeback or dispute claim. Call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your card) and explain that you canceled a subscription but were still charged. Provide dates, amounts, and any cancellation confirmation numbers. Your bank will investigate and may reverse the charge within 7 to 10 business days. Stopee recommends keeping all documentation for this process, and disputing with your bank does not prevent you from also filing a complaint with the FTC.

Common cancellation mistakes and how to avoid them

Cancellation feels stressful, especially if you feel trapped by unexpected charges-we understand that frustration, and these mistakes are completely avoidable with the right approach.

Mistake 1: deleting the confirmation email

Many people cancel and then immediately delete the confirmation email to clear their inbox. Do not do this. Keep every email from Private Reports for at least one year. Your confirmation email is your proof that you canceled on a specific date. If a dispute arises, you will need this evidence.

Mistake 2: canceling on the phone without requesting written confirmation

Phone representatives are human and make mistakes. A verbal cancellation with no documentation is almost useless if the company later claims no cancellation request was received. Always ask for a written confirmation, and if the representative refuses, follow up with an online or certified mail cancellation.

Mistake 3: accepting a "pause" instead of a cancellation

Customer service representatives sometimes offer to pause or suspend your account instead of canceling it. This is a trap. A pause typically means your account remains active and will resume charging after a set period. If you want to cancel, say the word "cancel"-do not accept pause, suspension, or downgrade offers unless you genuinely want them.

Mistake 4: not checking your statements for 60 days

After canceling, many people move on and forget to monitor their bank or credit card statements. If Private Reports makes an error and continues billing, you might not notice for months. Set a phone reminder to check your statements 30 days and 60 days after cancellation. This vigilance takes 2 minutes and can save you hundreds of dollars.

Mistake 5: ignoring a refund denial

If Private Reports denies your refund request, that is not the end of the process. You can escalate by filing a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or with your state attorney general. These agencies have power to investigate and penalize the company. Do not accept a refusal as final.

Pricing comparison and subscription details

Understanding Private Reports' cost structure helps you assess the refund you may be owed.

These prices are based on publicly reported consumer complaints and data-broker reviews. Your actual charges may vary slightly. If you enrolled via a different promotional offer, your trial price or monthly fee could differ. Always verify your exact charges on your billing statement.

When to escalate: filing complaints with consumer authorities

If Private Reports ignores your cancellation request or refuses to refund charges, escalate to federal or state authorities-they have enforcement power that you can leverage.

Filing a complaint with the federal trade commission

The FTC investigates negative-option violations and has sued major companies for exactly the kinds of billing practices Private Reports may use. File a complaint online at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Include:

• Your name and contact information
• Private Reports' website and phone number
• Dates of enrollment and cancellation
• Amounts charged and dates of charges
• Copies of all confirmation emails and cancellation requests
• A clear explanation of the problem (e.g., "I canceled but was still charged")

The FTC does not resolve individual disputes, but complaints are aggregated and used to investigate patterns of abuse. If enough consumers file complaints, the FTC may launch an enforcement action.

Reporting to your state attorney general

Your state's attorney general office investigates consumer fraud and unfair business practices. Visit your state's website (search "Attorney General [Your State]" in a search engine) and look for a consumer complaint form. Submit the same documentation you filed with the FTC, emphasizing state-specific automatic renewal laws if they apply to you.

Reporting to your bank or credit card company

Your financial institution has its own dispute resolution process and fraud investigation team. Call the number on the back of your card and file a dispute or chargeback claim. This is separate from complaining to the FTC but equally important-your bank can freeze further charges while investigating.

Checklist: cancellation steps you can track

Use this checklist to stay organized and ensure you do not miss any critical steps.

• Before canceling:
  • Take screenshots of your account showing charges
  • Note the date and time
  • Locate your confirmation or welcome email from Private Reports
• Cancellation attempt 1 (online):
  • Visit the opt-out portal
  • Submit removal request
  • Screenshot confirmation page
  • Click verification link in email
  • Save all emails and screenshots
• Cancellation attempt 2 (if online fails):
  • Call (833) 783-0920
  • Request confirmation number
  • Ask for email confirmation
  • Document the call (date, time, rep name)
• Cancellation attempt 3 (if needed):
  • Send certified mail letter
  • Keep receipt and return receipt card
  • Make copies of letter
• After cancellation:
  • Monitor bank statements for 60 days
  • Dispute any unauthorized charges with your bank
  • If refused, file FTC complaint within 60 days
  • File state attorney general complaint if needed

Contact information and mailing address

When you need to reach Private Reports or send official cancellation documents, use these contact methods.

Private reports cancellation address

Infomatics LLC (doing business as Private Reports)
Cancellation Department
[Standard mailing address as provided on their website or most recent billing statement]

Note: Mailing addresses change. Before sending certified mail, visit privatereports.com or call (833) 783-0920 to confirm the current mailing address. Do not use an outdated address, as your letter may not reach the right department.

Customer service phone line

(833) 783-0920

Call during standard business hours. If you reach voicemail, leave a message requesting a cancellation confirmation callback, but do not rely on this alone.

Online opt-out portal

Visit privatereports.com/remove to submit an online removal request. This is the fastest method and creates automatic documentation.

Final summary: take control of your subscription today

Private Reports uses a negative-option billing model that relies on consumer inattention to keep charging your account. The good news is that federal law is on your side. The FTC requires companies to make cancellation as easy as enrollment, provide clear disclosure, and obtain genuine consent. You have the right to cancel, the right to refund consideration, and the right to escalate to authorities if the company refuses to cooperate.

Start with the online opt-out portal for speed and documentation. If that does not work, call (833) 783-0920. If the company still refuses, send certified mail and file complaints with the FTC and your state attorney general. Keep every email and document for at least one year. Monitor your statements for 60 days after cancellation to catch any errors.

Stopee understands that subscription cancellation feels overwhelming, which is why we've built this guide to give you every tool and script you need. Stopee has helped thousands of consumers cancel Private Reports and reclaim control of their billing. Whether you're disputing charges, requesting refunds, or simply stopping future payments, you're not alone-Stopee is here to guide you through every step. Take action today, document everything, and escalate if necessary. You have the power to stop those charges.