More opt out from Electoral Roll

Posted in 'Electoral Roll' by Barry Stamp

22 December 2008

Credit reference agency Callcredit has now revealed that the proportion of people opting out from the marketing version of the Electoral Roll has increased to 43%. The proportion has been steadily rising since consumers were first given the ability to say 'no' to having their personal details sold.

Almost 20 million UK residents have now opted out, a 3% increase on last year, as consumers gain better public awareness of the threat of identity fraud, despite the relatively confusing way that the option is presented on the annual canvass forms distributed by local Electoral Registration Officers.

This trend is not welcomed by the direct marketing industry, which is seeing a progressive reduction in the number of prospects it can mail or phone for marketing purposes.

The trend follows the increasing fear of falling victim to identity fraud - opting out of the marketing version of the Electoral Roll is one of the first steps taken by many to help reduce the risks. Further, no-cost tips can be found in our Free Identity Theft Check service.

If you wish to see whether you are listed on the credit reference agency versions of the Electoral Roll, and whether your preference to opt out has been recorded, you can do so by checking your credit files. A subscription to Unlimited Access to Triple Agency Reports will also enable you to track when the latest update to the Electoral Roll is added to individual credit files.