Movies have rewired our minds to think that disappearing without a trace is bad. In films, most people go missing because they are running away from the law, responsibilities, or a dangerous life. However, there is nothing wrong with seeking a fresh start, especially after a life-changing event. In these modern times, disappearing without a trace is difficult because of the digital footprints most people leave behind. That said, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Below are tips and tricks that people can use to legally disappear without a trace.
Steps of Disappearing Without a Trace
As aforementioned, disappearing without a trace is challenging but not impossible. Here are some tips to start you off:
Create a New Legal Identity
The first step to disappearing without a trace is to create a new legal identity. Using old names can make you easy to track. So, a new identity is the best solution. In most countries, changing your name is not that difficult. What’s mostly needed is to present a request to a court of law with a valid reason.
As expected, the court must do background checks to ascertain whether you’re a criminal. If innocent, the request should be approved in a few weeks, and you will receive a new identity. As seen in movies, people can buy fake passports or driver’s licenses. The only problem with this arrangement is that it is against the law and could land you in trouble.
After getting a new identity, this information must remain private. Do not share it with friends, family, colleagues, or neighbors. You can also create a fake nickname to mask your new identity.
Do Away With Your Digital Footprint
Once you’re sure you want to disappear without a trace, the second step is to erase your digital footprint. This includes your social media handles, posts, emails, websites, and anything else that may tie you to the internet.
Begin by exiting all social media platforms and erasing data, which includes posts and pictures. On most of these platforms, people tend to leave behind lots of information, such as dates of birth, addresses, and phone numbers. Fortunately, all social media platforms allow users to remove and erase their accounts. Repeat the procedure with emails.
Discard Your Old Phone
Tempting as it might be, do not keep your old phone. Wipe out all the data, which may include contacts and images. Get a new phone, and don’t share the new number with anyone. For future purposes, it’s advisable to write down the contact information of important people in your life in a notebook. Should the day come when you’re interested in talking to a loved one, you can use a burner phone to keep your location undisclosed.
Withdraw All Your Money and Clear Your Debts
Proceed to withdraw all your money from the bank or e-wallets. If you want to disappear without a trace, you can’t use credit or debit cards because these can be used to track your location. Cash is the safest option because it’s untraceable.
The other mistake most people who intend to disappear without a trace do is leaving their finances in shambles. If you have a loan, you can rest assured that the bank will follow up on it. So, clear any loans or debts that you may have. This will give the bank no reason to hunt you down.
Travel Discretely
After the above procedures, it’s time to get on the road and travel discreetly. However, before doing that, have a destination in mind. Some people prefer to be spontaneous and follow where the road leads them. Having a specific destination in mind is better, though, as it helps you plan and prepares you psychologically. If you’re moving to a foreign country, prior knowledge is crucial as it helps in obtaining documentation and familiarizing oneself with the local language and culture.
With all your affairs in order, pack up a bag and leave. Sometimes it’s even best to buy new clothes and, if possible, change your dressing style. It’s a good idea to buy a new car whose plates are unknown by friends and family. Going MIA with your old car is a huge no. Stay off all major roads in case family or friends are looking for you. Still, when traveling, it’s best to avoid flights as air travel often involves a lot of identification and security checks, making it very risky.
Try Not to Reach out to Loved Ones
Once you are far away, do not reach out to loved ones. It’s not easy, but if you have a valid reason to disappear without a trace, the best solution is not to stay in touch with friends or family. With time, you’ll get detached, and so will they.
During this period, it is crucial to embrace solace and mental strength. Eventually, you’ll adapt to a new life. It’s vital to stay off grid for as long as possible. Do not open a new social media account or use your address to create an email. Make sure that you blend in with the new environment to prevent suspicion. Always be alert and listen to your gut. Don’t hesitate to run or hide if you think someone is tailing you.
The Key Takeaway
Disappearing without a trace is easier said than done. However, in instances where one is seeking political asylum, running away from an abusive relationship, getting into the witness protection program, or any other valid reason, it is necessary. It comes with its fair share of challenges, but it’s possible. Many people have pulled it off, and you can too.