There can be various reasons why an individual would like to erase their identity and start a new life. For example, you may be part of the witness protection program. An individual could be facing an abusive relationship and may be looking for a permanent escape. Or you could be facing a stalker or criminal gangs, who may be trying to harm you. There is also a possibility that you may be residing in an unfriendly country and seeking asylum in the United States.
As long as you are not involved in any criminal act, you are within your legal rights to disappear without a trace. There is no specific rule that bars individuals from doing so. Here are some steps you can take to disappear without a trace.
Change your name - This is the first thing you need to focus on. You can get a new name via a court. A background check will be done to ensure that you are not involved in any criminal activity. If everything goes well, you should be able to get a new name within a few weeks. Make sure not to reveal your new identity to anyone. Not even family members, as they could be tricked into revealing your new identity.
Rent a new home - It is apparent that you have to choose a new location and new home if you are planning to disappear without a trace. Choose a mid-sized city and avoid small towns and big cities. People know each other in small towns, whereas big cities have a lot of digital tracking platforms. A mid-sized city will be best to stay unknown, with limited exposure to digital platforms.
Get a new phone and number - After the new name, you should get a new phone number. You should use this number only for legal requirements. If you need to call someone, you can probably use a public pay phone from a different location.
Delete all digital records - You need to erase all your digital footprint. It includes your email and social media accounts. Any online subscriptions or user accounts registered in your earlier name should be deleted. You can download any date you need before deleting such accounts.
Clear all your dues - Before starting an anonymous life, you need to make sure that you are completely debt free. If you leave without paying your debts, law enforcement agencies may be notified to track you down. Make sure all your loans and credit card bills are paid. Any automatic subscriptions should also be closed.
Stay away from CCTV cameras - Cameras are everywhere and it is almost impossible to avoid them. You can probably do more of your shopping online and pay in cash. You can also choose to stay indoors during the day and go out during night time only. You can change your getup and grow or cut your facial hair.
Use cash - As much as possible, make your transactions in cash. Card transactions should only be done after you have a new bank account with a new name and profile.
Last but not least, make sure you detach yourself gradually to avoid suspicion. Your plan should begin months earlier by gradually distancing yourself from your friends and family members. At the end, you can probably tell your loved ones that you are going on a long assignment and will not be available for the specific duration.
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