How do I opt out of AT&T data?

Posted on: 16 Feb 2026

Are you concerned about AT&T sharing your personal data? This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to opting out of AT&T's data sharing practices, ensuring you regain control over your information. Discover how to protect your privacy effectively in 2025 and beyond.

In today's digital landscape, telecommunications giants like AT&T collect vast amounts of data from their subscribers. This data can include your browsing history, location information, call records, app usage, and even demographic details. AT&T, like many other companies, uses this information for various purposes, including improving its services, personalizing your experience, and, crucially, for marketing and advertising. Understanding the scope and nature of this data collection is the first critical step toward regaining control over your digital footprint.

AT&T's data sharing practices are primarily governed by its privacy policy. While they aim to be transparent, the sheer volume of information and the technical jargon can make it challenging for the average consumer to fully grasp. Essentially, AT&T may share aggregated or anonymized data with third parties for research and development, and it may also use your data to serve you targeted advertisements. This practice is often referred to as "interest-based advertising" or "personalized advertising." The company argues that this allows for more relevant ads, but for many, it represents an unwelcome intrusion into their privacy.

The data AT&T collects can be broadly categorized into several types:

Service Usage Data: This includes information about how you use their services, such as call duration, data consumption, website visits (if using their network), and app usage.
Location Data: Your mobile device's location can be tracked, providing insights into your movements and frequented places.
Device Information: Details about the devices you use, including model, operating system, and unique identifiers.
Demographic and Preference Data: Information you provide or that is inferred about your age, interests, and lifestyle.
Network Performance Data: Information related to the quality and performance of AT&T's network.

It's important to note that AT&T's policies may evolve, and understanding the current terms is vital. For instance, as of 2025, regulatory bodies are increasingly scrutinizing how large corporations handle consumer data, leading to potential shifts in how data can be collected and utilized. Staying informed about these changes is part of a proactive privacy strategy.

Types of Data Shared

AT&T may share different types of data depending on the purpose. This can range from anonymized or aggregated data that cannot be linked back to an individual, to more specific data used for targeted advertising. The key distinction often lies in whether the data is personally identifiable.

For marketing and advertising purposes, AT&T might use your data to:

Create Customer Profiles: Building detailed profiles based on your usage patterns and inferred interests.
Target Advertisements: Serving ads on AT&T platforms or through partner networks that are tailored to your perceived interests.
Offer Personalized Promotions: Providing you with deals and offers that are more likely to appeal to you.
Share with Third-Party Advertisers: In some cases, AT&T may share data with third-party advertising partners to enable them to serve you ads across the internet.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial because the methods for opting out can vary depending on the type of data sharing you wish to prevent. For example, opting out of interest-based advertising might involve different steps than opting out of general marketing communications.

Legal and Regulatory Context

The legal framework surrounding data privacy is constantly evolving. In the United States, there isn't a single, comprehensive federal privacy law like the GDPR in Europe. However, various state-level laws, such as the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), grant consumers significant rights regarding their personal data, including the right to opt out of the sale or sharing of their information. Many other states are following suit with their own privacy legislation.

AT&T, as a major service provider, must comply with these regulations. This means they are obligated to provide mechanisms for consumers to exercise their privacy rights, including opting out of certain data sharing practices. The specific rights and opt-out procedures can differ based on your state of residence. For instance, if you reside in a state with robust privacy laws, you may have more explicit rights to control how your data is used and shared.

As of 2025, the trend is towards greater consumer control. This means that companies are increasingly expected to offer clear and accessible opt-out options. However, the effectiveness and ease of these opt-out processes can still vary significantly.

Why You Should Opt Out of AT&T Data Sharing

The decision to opt out of AT&T's data sharing practices is a personal one, but the reasons for doing so are compelling and rooted in fundamental privacy concerns. In an era where data is often referred to as the "new oil," understanding the implications of allowing a company to collect and utilize your information is paramount.

The primary driver for opting out is the desire to protect your personal privacy. When AT&T collects and shares your data, it contributes to a broader ecosystem of data brokers and advertisers who build detailed profiles about you. This profiling can lead to a feeling of being constantly monitored and can be used to influence your purchasing decisions in ways you might not be aware of or comfortable with.

Furthermore, data breaches are an unfortunate reality. The more data a company holds about you, the greater the risk if that company experiences a security incident. By minimizing the amount of data AT&T has and shares, you reduce your exposure in the event of a breach.

Another significant concern is the potential for data to be used in ways that are not in your best interest. While AT&T may claim its data usage is for service improvement and personalized advertising, there's always a risk of data being used for discriminatory purposes or to exploit vulnerabilities. For example, detailed location data could potentially be used to infer sensitive information about your lifestyle, health, or financial situation.

Consider the psychological impact of personalized advertising. While some find it convenient, others find it intrusive and manipulative. The constant bombardment of targeted ads can create a sense of being under surveillance and can contribute to digital fatigue. Opting out can help reduce this digital noise and allow for a more private online experience.

Finally, exercising your right to opt out is a powerful statement about the value you place on your data. By taking these steps, you contribute to a broader movement towards greater data privacy and accountability for large corporations.

Protecting Personal Privacy

Your personal information is valuable. Allowing it to be collected and shared without your explicit consent can erode your sense of privacy. Opting out means you are actively choosing to limit who has access to your digital footprint. This includes your online activities, your location, and your communication patterns.

For instance, if you are concerned about your browsing habits being tracked and used to infer your political leanings or health concerns, opting out of interest-based advertising is a crucial step. This prevents AT&T from using your browsing data to build a profile that is then shared with advertisers.

Reducing Risk of Data Breaches

Data breaches are a constant threat. In 2025, the sophistication of cyberattacks continues to increase. When companies hold less of your sensitive information, the impact of a potential breach is significantly reduced. By opting out of data sharing, you are essentially minimizing the "attack surface" that malicious actors could exploit through AT&T's systems.

Think of it like this: if you have a lot of valuable items in your house, it's a bigger target. If you only keep essentials and secure them well, the risk is lower. The same principle applies to your digital data. Less data held by any single entity means less risk for you if that entity's security is compromised.

Preventing Unwanted Marketing and Manipulation

Targeted advertising, while sometimes useful, can also feel invasive and manipulative. Companies use sophisticated algorithms to predict your desires and present you with ads designed to elicit a purchase. This can lead to impulse buying and a feeling of being constantly pressured. Opting out of data sharing directly combats this by limiting the data available for such targeted campaigns.

Furthermore, opting out of marketing communications ensures that your inbox and other communication channels are not flooded with promotional messages from AT&T or its partners. This can lead to a cleaner, more focused digital experience.

Preparing to Opt Out: What You'll Need

Before you begin the process of opting out of AT&T's data sharing, it's essential to be prepared. Having the necessary information and understanding the different methods available will make the process smoother and more effective. The steps involved can vary depending on your specific AT&T services (e.g., wireless, internet, TV) and your location.

Gathering your account information is the first crucial step. You will likely need your AT&T account number and potentially your User ID and password for online portals. Having this readily available will save you time and frustration when navigating AT&T's privacy settings or contacting customer service.

It's also beneficial to familiarize yourself with AT&T's privacy policy. While it can be lengthy, understanding the key sections related to data collection, usage, and sharing will empower you to make informed decisions. Pay attention to terms like "interest-based advertising," "customer proprietary network information (CPNI)," and "third-party sharing."

Consider which specific types of data sharing you wish to opt out of. Are you primarily concerned about marketing, interest-based advertising, or the sharing of your network usage data? Knowing your priorities will help you focus on the relevant opt-out procedures.

Finally, be aware that some opt-out processes may require you to take action on multiple fronts. For example, you might need to adjust settings online, make a phone call, and potentially send a written request, especially if you are in a state with strong privacy legislation.

Account Information

To effectively manage your privacy settings, you'll need access to your AT&T account. This typically includes:

Account Number: This is a unique identifier for your AT&T service.
User ID and Password: For accessing your account online through the AT&T website or app.
Contact Information: The phone number and email address associated with your account.
Service Address: For verification purposes, especially if you are opting out via mail or phone.

Ensure that your contact information is up-to-date, as AT&T may use it to confirm your identity or send you notifications regarding your privacy requests.

Understanding AT&T's Privacy Policy

AT&T's privacy policy is the foundational document outlining how they collect, use, and share your data. While it can be dense, understanding key sections is vital. Look for:

Data Collection: What types of data AT&T collects from you.
Data Usage: How AT&T uses your data (e.g., service provision, marketing, analytics).
Data Sharing: With whom AT&T shares your data and under what circumstances.
Your Choices: The options AT&T provides for you to control your data.
CPNI (Customer Proprietary Network Information): This is sensitive data related to your telecommunications usage.

As of 2025, privacy policies are often updated to reflect new regulations. It's a good practice to review the policy periodically.

Identifying Specific Opt-Out Goals

Before diving into the opt-out process, clarify what you want to achieve. Common goals include:

Opting out of marketing communications: Stopping promotional emails, texts, and calls.
Opting out of interest-based advertising: Preventing AT&T from using your data to serve personalized ads.
Opting out of sharing with third parties: Limiting the sharing of your data with external companies for their marketing purposes.
Opting out of CPNI usage for marketing: Preventing AT&T from using your call and data usage details for marketing.

Each of these goals might require slightly different steps. For example, opting out of CPNI usage for marketing is a specific FCC requirement that AT&T must honor.

How to Opt Out of AT&T Marketing and Analytics

Opting out of AT&T's marketing and analytics practices is a crucial step in regaining control over your personal information. This process involves adjusting settings across various AT&T platforms and services. It's important to understand that "marketing" can encompass a broad range of communications, from general promotional emails to personalized offers based on your usage. Similarly, "analytics" often refers to the internal use of your data to improve services or understand customer behavior, which can indirectly influence future marketing efforts.

The most direct way to manage these preferences is through your online AT&T account. Logging into the AT&T portal allows you to access a centralized hub for managing your communication preferences and privacy settings. This is often the most efficient method, as it allows you to see and adjust multiple settings in one place.

When you log in, navigate to the "Profile," "Account Settings," or "Privacy" section. Within these sections, you should find options related to marketing communications and data usage for analytics. Look for checkboxes or toggles that allow you to opt out of receiving promotional emails, text messages, or even certain types of personalized communications.

It's also vital to consider specific AT&T services you use. For example, if you have AT&T TV or U-verse, there might be separate settings for those services. The key is to be thorough and check all relevant areas of your account.

Remember that opting out of marketing does not necessarily mean AT&T will stop collecting data about your service usage. This data is often necessary for providing and improving the core services you pay for. However, it should prevent them from using that data for marketing purposes or sharing it with third parties for their marketing.

Online Account Management

The primary method for managing your AT&T preferences is through your online account. Follow these general steps:

Go to the official AT&T website (att.com).
Log in using your AT&T User ID and password.
Navigate to the "My Account" section.
Look for options like "Profile," "Settings," "Communication Preferences," or "Privacy."
Within these sections, you should find toggles or checkboxes to opt out of various marketing communications (e.g., promotional emails, texts, special offers).
Save any changes you make.

For example, under communication preferences, you might see options to "Receive promotional emails" or "Receive marketing text messages." Uncheck these boxes to opt out.

Customer Proprietary Network Information (CPNI)

CPNI is a specific type of data that telecommunications companies collect, including your call detail records, network usage, and billing information. Federal regulations (FCC) require AT&T to obtain your consent before using your CPNI for marketing purposes.

To opt out of AT&T using your CPNI for marketing:

Log in to your AT&T online account.
Navigate to the privacy or communication preferences section.
Look for an option specifically related to CPNI marketing. You may need to explicitly "opt out" or "restrict" the use of your CPNI for marketing.

This is a critical step, as CPNI can reveal a lot about your communication habits. By opting out, you prevent AT&T from using this sensitive information to tailor marketing messages to you.

App Settings

If you use AT&T's mobile apps (e.g., myAT&T app), check the settings within the app itself. Apps often have their own notification and privacy settings that may differ from the website.

Open the AT&T app on your smartphone or tablet.
Go to the app's settings or profile section.
Look for notification preferences and privacy controls.
Adjust settings to limit marketing messages or data sharing for analytics within the app.

This ensures a consistent approach to privacy across all AT&T platforms you interact with.

Opting Out of AT&T Interest-Based Advertising

Interest-based advertising, also known as personalized advertising or behavioral advertising, uses your online activity and other data to show you ads that are deemed relevant to your interests. AT&T, like many other companies, participates in this practice. Opting out of this type of advertising is a key step in reducing how your data is used for marketing purposes across the internet.

The process for opting out of interest-based advertising typically involves disabling specific tracking technologies and opting out of data sharing with advertising partners. This is often managed through a combination of AT&T's online portals and potentially through industry-wide opt-out mechanisms.

When you opt out of interest-based advertising, you will likely still see advertisements. However, these ads will be less personalized and may be based on more general factors, such as the content of the website you are visiting, rather than your specific browsing history or inferred interests.

It's important to understand that opting out of interest-based advertising through AT&T's specific mechanisms does not necessarily opt you out of all targeted advertising. Advertisers and ad networks use various methods to track users, and AT&T's opt-out primarily addresses their direct participation in this ecosystem. For a more comprehensive approach, you might need to utilize other tools and browser settings.

Online Interest-Based Advertising Settings

AT&T provides specific settings within your online account to manage interest-based advertising.

Log in to your AT&T online account.
Navigate to the "Privacy" or "Advertising Preferences" section.
Look for an option related to "Interest-Based Advertising," "Personalized Ads," or "Ad Choices."
You should find a toggle or checkbox to disable this feature. Select the option to opt out.
Ensure you save your changes.

This action tells AT&T not to use your data for the purpose of serving you personalized ads.

Using AT&T's Privacy Choices Tool

AT&T may offer a dedicated "Privacy Choices" tool or portal. This is often a centralized place where you can manage various privacy preferences, including opting out of data sharing for advertising and marketing.

Search for "AT&T Privacy Choices" on their website or within your account portal.
Follow the instructions provided on the tool to make your selections.
This tool may allow you to opt out of specific categories of data sharing, such as sharing for marketing, analytics, or interest-based advertising.

This tool is designed to simplify the process and ensure you are addressing the relevant privacy controls.

Opting Out of Location-Based Advertising

Your mobile device's location data is highly sensitive. AT&T may use this data for various purposes, including advertising. If you wish to prevent AT&T from using your location data for advertising, you typically need to adjust your device's location settings and potentially your AT&T account settings.

Device Settings: On your smartphone (iOS or Android), go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services. You can then set location access for AT&T apps to "Never" or "While Using the App."
AT&T Account Settings: Check your AT&T online account for specific options related to location data usage for advertising. There may be a separate opt-out for this.

It's important to note that disabling location services entirely might affect the functionality of some apps and services. However, for advertising purposes, this is a crucial step.

Managing AT&T Privacy Settings Online

The AT&T website and its associated online portals are your primary command center for managing privacy settings. While the exact location of these settings can change as AT&T updates its interfaces, the core principle remains the same: you need to log in to your account and navigate to the relevant privacy or preference sections.

Beyond the specific opt-outs discussed earlier, there are other general privacy settings you should be aware of. These might include managing your contact information, setting up account security features, and reviewing AT&T's terms of service. Ensuring your account is secure is also a form of privacy protection, as it prevents unauthorized access to your data.

Consider using a strong, unique password for your AT&T account and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) if available. This adds an extra layer of security, making it much harder for anyone to access your account and change your privacy settings without your knowledge.

Furthermore, keep an eye out for any notifications or emails from AT&T regarding privacy updates or changes to their policies. These communications often contain important information about your rights and how to manage your settings.

Navigating the AT&T Website

The AT&T website can be a complex ecosystem. To find your privacy settings:

Start at att.com.
Log in to "MyATT."
Look for menu items such as "Profile," "Account," "My Account," or "Settings."
Within these sections, search for sub-menus like "Privacy," "Communication Preferences," "Advertising Choices," or "Data Usage."

If you have multiple AT&T services (e.g., wireless, internet, TV), you may need to check the settings for each service individually or find a consolidated privacy dashboard.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

While not directly an opt-out of data sharing, enabling 2FA is a critical security measure that protects your account and, by extension, your privacy.

Log in to your AT&T account.
Go to Security Settings.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication. You will typically receive a code via text message or an authenticator app when logging in from a new device.

This prevents unauthorized access to your account, where someone could potentially alter your privacy settings.

Reviewing and Updating Preferences

Privacy settings are not a one-time setup. AT&T may update its policies, introduce new services, or change its interface. It's good practice to revisit your privacy settings periodically.

Schedule a reminder (e.g., every 6-12 months) to log in to your AT&T account.
Review your current privacy and marketing preferences.
Check for any new options or changes in how your data is handled.
Update your settings as needed to ensure they align with your privacy goals.

This proactive approach ensures your preferences remain active and effective over time.

Opting Out via Phone and Mail

While online management is often the most convenient, AT&T also provides options to opt out via phone and mail. These methods can be particularly useful if you encounter difficulties with the online portal or if you reside in a state with specific regulations that mandate these options.

Calling AT&T customer service is a direct way to request opt-outs. Be prepared to provide your account information and clearly state your request to opt out of specific data sharing practices, such as marketing communications or interest-based advertising. It's advisable to take notes during the call, including the date, time, the name of the representative you spoke with, and a summary of your request and their response.

For written requests, you can typically send a letter to AT&T's privacy department. This method provides a documented record of your request. Ensure your letter includes all necessary account information and clearly specifies the data sharing practices you wish to opt out of. Sending the letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested is recommended to confirm delivery.

It's important to note that opting out via phone or mail might take longer to process compared to online changes. However, for some individuals, these methods offer a greater sense of control and assurance.

Calling AT&T Customer Service

To opt out by phone:

Find the appropriate AT&T customer service number for your service type (e.g., wireless, internet). You can usually find this on your bill or the AT&T website.
Call the number and navigate the automated menu to speak with a representative.
Clearly state your request: "I would like to opt out of [specific data sharing practice, e.g., marketing communications, interest-based advertising, CPNI for marketing]."
Provide your account number and other necessary verification details.
Ask for confirmation of your opt-out request and note any reference numbers.

Be persistent and polite. If the representative is unsure, ask to speak with a supervisor or someone in the privacy department.

Writing a Request Letter

If you prefer to opt out via mail:

Draft a formal letter clearly stating your request.
Include your full name, AT&T account number, and contact information (phone number, email address).
Specify the data sharing practices you wish to opt out of (e.g., "I am requesting to opt out of AT&T's use of my Customer Proprietary Network Information (CPNI) for marketing purposes," or "I wish to opt out of interest-based advertising and marketing communications").
Address the letter to: AT&T Privacy Policy, AT&T Services, Inc., 208 S. Akard Street, Dallas, TX 75201 (Note: This address may change; verify the correct address on AT&T's website).
Send the letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested.

Keep a copy of the letter and the mailing receipt for your records.

State-Specific Opt-Out Rights

If you reside in a state with comprehensive privacy laws (like California, Virginia, Colorado, Utah, Connecticut), you may have additional rights and specific opt-out procedures mandated by law.

Check AT&T's privacy policy for sections specifically addressing your state's laws.
These laws often grant the right to opt out of the "sale" or "sharing" of personal information, which can be broader than just marketing.
AT&T may provide specific links or instructions for residents of these states to exercise their rights.

For example, under the CPRA, you have the right to opt out of the sale or sharing of your personal information for cross-context behavioral advertising. AT&T must provide clear mechanisms for this.

Verifying Your Opt-Out Status

After you have submitted your opt-out requests through various channels, it's crucial to verify that they have been processed correctly. This step ensures that your privacy preferences are actively being honored and that AT&T is complying with your requests.

The verification process can involve checking your online account settings again, looking for confirmation emails, or even monitoring your communications and online advertising for changes. If you opted out of marketing, you should notice a decrease in promotional messages. If you opted out of interest-based advertising, you might observe that the ads you see are less tailored to your perceived interests.

Be aware that it can take some time for opt-out requests to be fully processed across all AT&T systems. AT&T's privacy policy often states a timeframe within which they will implement your opt-out, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks. Patience is key, but persistent verification is recommended.

If you do not see the expected changes or receive confirmation, it is important to follow up with AT&T customer service. Providing details of your previous opt-out requests (dates, reference numbers) will help them locate your case and address any issues.

Checking Online Account Settings

The most straightforward way to verify your opt-out is to revisit the same online settings where you made the changes.

Log back into your AT&T online account.
Navigate to the privacy, communication preferences, or advertising settings.
Confirm that the toggles or checkboxes you selected to opt out are still in the "off" or "opted out" position.
If any settings have reverted, reapply your preferences and save them again.

This step is essential as system updates or policy changes could sometimes reset preferences.

Monitoring Communications and Ads

Observe the communications you receive from AT&T and the advertisements you encounter online.

Marketing Emails/Texts: Have the promotional messages from AT&T significantly decreased or stopped altogether?
Interest-Based Ads: Do the ads you see seem less targeted? For example, if you recently searched for a specific product, do you no longer see ads for that exact product across different websites?
Location-Based Ads: If you opted out of location-based advertising, are you seeing fewer ads that seem to be based on your current or past locations?

This observational verification can provide tangible evidence of your opt-out's effectiveness.

Following Up on Requests

If you made opt-out requests via phone or mail, or if you suspect your online opt-outs are not working, follow up.

Contact AT&T customer service again.
Reference any previous communication, including dates, representative names, and reference numbers.
Clearly state that you are following up on your opt-out request and have not seen the desired results.
Request specific confirmation that your opt-out has been processed and is active.

Escalate your concerns if you are not receiving satisfactory assistance.

Alternatives and Additional Privacy Measures

While opting out of AT&T's data sharing is a significant step, it's part of a broader strategy for digital privacy. In 2025 and beyond, a multi-layered approach is often the most effective. Consider these additional measures to further protect your personal information and online activities.

Beyond AT&T, other companies collect and share your data. This includes app developers, social media platforms, and websites you visit. Understanding how these entities operate and taking steps to limit their data collection is equally important. For instance, reviewing app permissions on your smartphone and adjusting privacy settings on social media platforms can significantly reduce your data footprint.

Browser privacy settings and tools play a vital role. Using privacy-focused browsers, enabling tracking prevention features, and regularly clearing cookies and cache can limit online tracking. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can also mask your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic, adding another layer of anonymity.

Furthermore, be mindful of the information you share online. The less personal data you volunteer on public forums, social media, or through online forms, the less data is available to be collected and potentially shared. Regularly reviewing your online accounts for any unnecessary data or old profiles can also be beneficial.

Managing App Permissions

Many mobile applications request access to sensitive data like your location, contacts, microphone, and camera.

On your smartphone, go to Settings > Apps (or Applications).
Select each app individually.
Review the permissions granted to the app.
Revoke any permissions that are not essential for the app's core functionality. For example, a game likely doesn't need access to your contacts.

This limits the data that individual apps can collect and potentially share.

Using Privacy-Focused Browsers and VPNs

Enhance your online privacy by using specialized tools.

Privacy-Focused Browsers: Consider browsers like Brave, DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser, or Firefox with enhanced privacy settings enabled. These browsers often block trackers by default.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): A VPN encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, making it harder for websites and your ISP to track your online activity. Choose a reputable VPN provider with a strict no-logs policy.

Using these tools in conjunction with AT&T opt-outs provides a more robust privacy shield.

Your own online behavior significantly impacts your privacy.

Social Media: Adjust privacy settings on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to limit who can see your posts and personal information.
Online Forms: Be cautious about filling out online forms. Only provide necessary information and consider using pseudonyms or disposable email addresses where appropriate.
Public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive accounts (like banking) when connected to public Wi-Fi networks unless you are using a VPN.

The principle of "least privilege" applies to your data: only share what is absolutely necessary.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly enhance your digital privacy and regain control over how your personal information is collected, used, and shared by companies like AT&T and others in the digital ecosystem. Staying informed and proactive is key to navigating the complexities of modern data privacy.

In conclusion, opting out of AT&T data sharing is an achievable and important goal for anyone concerned about their digital privacy. By understanding AT&T's practices, preparing your account information, and diligently following the online, phone, and mail opt-out procedures, you can effectively limit how your personal data is used for marketing and advertising. Remember to verify your opt-out status and consider additional privacy measures for a comprehensive approach. Take control of your data today for a more private digital future.