What steps should users take to delete their SoundCloud account, and what are the differences between doing so on the web versus the app?

To delete your SoundCloud account:

On the Web:

• Sign in on a computer and go to your Account Settings.
• Click the ‘delete account’ button to initiate the process.
• Ensure you can sign in; if you’re having trouble, visit Help Accessing Your Account for more help first.

On the App:

• While signed in, go to your account settings by following these steps: tap on your avatar from the library screen, select Settings, then Account, and finally tap ‘Delete account.’
• Confirm the account deletion to complete the process.

What account recovery options should users consider before deleting their SoundCloud account, and what are the consequences of deletion on linked services like SoundCloud Go?

Before deleting your account, consider the following:

• Account Recovery: If you’re considering deleting your account due to issues like trouble signing in, explore recovery options first. This might include resetting your password or recovering your account through the Help Accessing Your Account page.
• Impact on Linked Services: Deleting your SoundCloud account will also terminate any linked services, such as SoundCloud Go, which means you’ll lose access to these subscriptions and any associated content. Ensure you’ve canceled these services before deletion to avoid complications.

What are the consequences of account deletion, and how does it affect your data and presence on search engines like Google?

When you delete your account:

• Permanent Data Deletion: All data associated with your account, including uploaded sounds and usage data, will be permanently deleted and may not be recoverable. SoundCloud, being based in Germany, adheres to strict data protection laws, ensuring that your data is fully removed once a verified account owner requests deletion.
• Search Engine Presence: While your account will be deleted from SoundCloud, links to your profile may still appear in Google’s search results due to cached data. Google may take some time to update its search index, but if you want to expedite the removal of your profile from search results, you can contact Google directly using their public removal form.