Has your mobile been opted in?
A public mobile phone directory was launched in the UK on the 18th of June, but many people might find their phone numbers have been added without their knowledge.
The new service, launched by Connectivity under the number 118 800, is said to be the first directory of mobile phone numbers in the UK. According to the FAQ on its website, it does not hand out mobile phone numbers to enquirers. Instead, it sends a text message to the person you are trying to contact, asking them to call you back at a number you have provided. For this service, Connectivity charges a £1 fee whether or not the person you are seeking returns your call.
There are some concerns about where Connectivity obtained its data from. Initially it approached the mobile phone companies for their directory data. However, 02 refused this request saying that people typically regard their mobile numbers as personal and private, not public domain data. Other operators have taken a similar stance and Ofcom agreed that such a directory should be run on an opt-in basis.
Nevertheless, Connectivity claims to have "millions" of mobile numbers in its database, and it is understood that they have obtained these numbers by buying in lists from marketing departments and premium-rate call companies and without confirming that people wish to have their numbers in this directory. It does allow people to opt out, by sending a text message of "E" from the number you wish to make ex-directory, but disappointingly for an automated system, says it may take up to 28 days to honour your request.
www.118800.co.uk
24th June 2009