How to Delete Online Accounts You No Longer Need
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Technology Buyers Guide
Clearing out unused online accounts reduces the risk of your personal data being exposed in data breaches or misused. Here's a step-by-step guide on deleting accounts from popular services, with helpful links included.
General Tips for Digital Cleanup
Identify old accounts: Use email searches for sign-up confirmations or password reset emails to locate accounts.
Download your data: If the service allows it, download any photos, posts, or other data you'd like to save before deletion.
Update linked logins: If you used an account for other app logins (e.g., Facebook), switch to an alternative method before deletion.
Follow platform-specific steps: Use the exact instructions below for various platforms.
Account Deletion Steps
Social Media Platforms
- Facebook:
Delete Facebook Account -
Settings > Your Facebook Information > Delete Account and Information > Confirm with password.
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Instagram:
Delete Instagram Account -
Choose a reason for leaving > Enter password > Permanently delete.
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Twitter:
Delete Twitter Account -
Settings and privacy > Deactivate your account > Confirm password.
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LinkedIn:
Delete LinkedIn Account - Settings and privacy > Account > Close account > Confirm password.
Video and Photo Platforms
- YouTube:
Delete YouTube Channel -
Settings > Advanced Settings > Delete Channel > Confirm password.
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Flickr:
Delete Flickr Account - Settings > Delete your Flickr account > Confirm.
Finance and Budgeting Apps
- Mint:
Delete Mint Account -
Settings > Sign In & Security > Delete Account > Confirm username and password.
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Credit Karma:
Delete Credit Karma Account -
Profile & Settings > Security Settings > Deactivate.
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Personal Capital:
Delete Personal Capital Account - Settings > Delete User Account > Enter password > Confirm with “DELETE.”
Blogging and Forums
- Blogger:
Delete Blogger Account -
Settings > Delete Blog > Permanently Delete.
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Tumblr:
Delete Tumblr Account - Settings > Delete account > Confirm with email and password.
Messaging Apps
- WhatsApp:
-
Settings > Account > Delete my account > Enter phone number > Confirm.
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Snapchat:
Delete Snapchat Account - Enter username and password > Continue.
Tips for Forgotten Accounts
- Search for accounts linked to your email by using keywords like “welcome,” “sign up,” or “your account.”
- Use account-finding tools like JustDelete.me or Deseat.me for additional guidance.
Digital Privacy Reminder
Deleting old accounts is an essential step in securing your online presence. For added security, consider:
- Using a password manager to keep track of current logins.
- Regularly reviewing accounts and removing unnecessary ones.
- Adjusting privacy settings on the accounts you keep.
Clean up your digital footprint and enjoy greater peace of mind!
