Readers of TechCrunch are likely aware that privacy laws such as Europe’s GDPR and California’s CCPA grant individuals expanded rights concerning their personal information – including the option to request its removal. However, how many have actually taken advantage of this capability?

Mine, an Israeli-based company, is developing a solution to streamline this process and has recently announced the completion of a $9.5 million Series A funding round.

The company’s founders include Gal Ringel, serving as CEO, Gal Golan as CTO, and Kobi Nissan as CPO. Both Ringel and Golan previously served in Unit 8200, the Israeli Defense Forces’ cybersecurity division.

Ringel explained that Mine analyzes users’ email inboxes to provide clarity on which entities hold their personal data.

“Each time you engage in an online activity, such as registering for a service or booking travel, companies and services leave identifiable information within your inbox,” he stated.

Ringel emphasized that this represents a distinct approach to data privacy and ownership. Rather than focusing on restricting data access, Mine aims to foster greater confidence in sharing data, with the assurance that control is readily available when needed.

“The product empowers individuals to navigate the internet with increased security, knowing they can exercise their right to have their data removed,” he said.

Ringel pointed out that the typical Mine user has a data presence across 350 companies – a figure that rises to approximately 550 in the United States. A personal audit conducted by the author revealed a similar level of data distribution. (Ringel clarified that this count excludes email newsletters.)

Mine initially launched in Europe earlier this year and reports that over 100,000 individuals have already utilized the platform to submit 1.3 million data deletion requests.

The legal weight of these requests will vary based on location and the specific company involved, but Ringel believes that most organizations will comply, even beyond legal obligations, as part of building a positive privacy experience that fosters “trust and credibility with consumers.” Furthermore, “Many understand that losing a customer who requests data removal is a likely outcome.”

The company’s primary service is offered at no cost. Ringel indicated that Mine plans to generate revenue through premium consumer features, such as the ability to automatically manage the entire communication process with a company during a data deletion request. They also intend to collaborate with businesses to establish a standardized interface for privacy and data deletion procedures.

Addressing concerns about potential privacy risks associated with granting Mine access to an inbox, Ringel stated that the startup collects only the essential data – typically just the user’s email address and name. Beyond that, it identifies “the type of data, but not the actual data” held by other companies.

“We will never share or sell your data,” he affirmed.

Gradient Ventures, Google’s AI-focused venture fund, led the Series A funding round, with participation from e.ventures, MassMutual Ventures, and existing investors Battery Ventures and Saban Ventures. Ringel stated that the funds will be used to support Mine’s expansion into the United States.