Need to know if Data Brokers have actually been notified for information removal?

Norton Security | Norton Internet Security
1

I keep getting notices that my Privacy Monitor Assistant requires attention. I went to the Guide to enter my request, but I get a “Forbidden” with a “403” note. After doing that and not being able to go to the Data Brokers website I get a “Manually requested on February 28, 2026” note after going back to the Privacy Monitor Assistant, “View Details”, under “My Protection”. To be honest, I don’t know the status of this request.

1 Like
2

The 403 Forbidden error you’re seeing means the web server understood your request but refused to authorize access. In the context of Norton Privacy Monitor Assistant, this usually happens because the data broker’s website is blocking your connection, often due to a VPN being active, regional restrictions, or an IP address being flagged.

The status “Manually requested on February 28, 2026” indicates that because the automated system couldn’t access the site (likely due to that 403 error), it has logged your manual attempt to initiate the opt-out process.

How to Resolve the “Forbidden” Error
To successfully reach the data broker’s site and complete your request, try these steps:

  • Disable your VPN: Many data broker sites block known VPN IP addresses to prevent automated scraping or for regional compliance. Turn off any active VPN and try the “Guide” or website link again.
  • Clear Browser Cache and Cookies: Your browser may be storing outdated or corrupt session data that is causing the authorization failure.
  • Try an Incognito/Private Window: This opens the site without existing cookies or extensions that might be triggering the block.
  • Disable Browser Extensions: Ad-blockers or privacy-focused extensions can sometimes interfere with the handoff from Norton to the external site.
  • Switch Networks: If you are on a restricted office or public Wi-Fi, try using your mobile hotspot to see if your primary IP address is what’s being blocked.

Understanding Your Request Status
Since the status says “Manually requested,” Norton’s Assistant is currently tracking this as an in-progress manual action.

  1. Check for an Email: Data brokers often send a confirmation or verification email after a request is initiated. Look for any emails from the specific broker mentioned in your “View Details” list.
  2. Wait for Update: It can take several days to weeks for a data broker to process an opt-out. Once they do, Norton’s periodic scans should eventually detect that your info is gone and update the status to “Completed” or “Removed”.

Note: AI sourced content may may mistakes

3

bjm,

Thank you for the reply. From what I gather, the request is in process and I should just wait and follow up on my account. I will save your reply for future use. (My settings open Firefox in private mode all the time.)

Thanks again,

cv

2 Likes
4

Since you’re already using Firefox in private mode, you’ve ruled out most cookie-related issues, making a VPN or IP block the most likely culprit for that “403” hiccup.

Keep an eye on your email inbox (and spam folder) for any verification links the broker might have sent to finalize the removal. If the status hasn’t moved in 30 days, it’s worth trying the link again on a different network or with any VPN disabled.

Note: AI sourced content may make mistakes

5

My VPN was on. I’ll be watching my email and will try again if I don’t see a confirmation email in a month or so.

Thanks again. You have always been there to help.

cv

1 Like