Should you “Opt-Out”
In certain circumstances, you can tell a company not to share the unique information it has on file for you. You do this by choosing to “opt out.” Here are a few “opt outs” recommended by the World Privacy Forum. The World Privacy Forum’s “Top Ten Opt Outs” are found at
http://worldprivacyforum.org/2013/08/consumer-tips-top-ten-opt-outs.
Reduce Calls from Telemarketers
The National Do Not Call Registry
1-888-382-1222
The National Do Not Call Registry gives you a choice about whether to receive telemarketing calls at home or on your cell phone. Once your number has been on the registry for 31 days, telemarketers should not call, and you can file a complaint if they do. Registration of the number does not expire.
Reduce Pre-approved Credit and Insurance Offers
1-888-567-8688
Reduce pre-approved credit card offers and insurance solicitations delivered by postal mail by visiting this official site of the Consumer Credit Reporting Industry, which allows you to opt in or opt out of firm offers of credit or insurance.
Reduce Email Advertisements (CAN-SPAM)
The federal CAN-SPAM Act requires commercial organizations to provide recipients of email advertisements with a way to opt out of receiving emails in the future.
To opt out, the World Privacy Forum offers this direction:
- Check to make sure the email is CAN-SPAM-compliant, as some emails offer false opt outs. Here are three ways you can tell the difference.
- A CAN-SPAM-compliant email will be labeled as an advertisement.
- It will include a valid postal address for the sender.
- It will include a workable opt-out link of some type.
- Then use the link provided or send the request by postal mail. You will likely be asked to provide your email address but shouldn’t be asked for sensitive personal information.
Reduce Marketing Mail and Catalogs
The Direct Marketing Association’s opt-out services can be accessed by visiting www.dmachoice.org. This website enables you to manage the mail you receive from members of the Direct Marketing Association, whether it’s delivered by postal mail or email.