To tell you about the Open Register...

[Annabel7]

Posting here for traffic...

I've just realised that the council sell our details (supplied to the electoral register) to companies and charities for marketing purposes. They add your/our details on to something called the Open Register without consent and it's up to individuals to ask to be removed.

I think it's appalling. If you'd like to have your details removed, go to your local council website and search 'remove from open register'. I'm going to formally complain too and urge you to do the same. I think if you're going to use people's data to make a buck you ask them first, not put the onus on them to opt out..

Yes I knew about this. I agree it is pretty bad. When I confirmed my details on the electoral roll there was an opt out box to tick.

There is a box to tick on the voting registration form to indicate that you don't want to be on the open register. I have always ticked this.

The option was on the form the council sent out every year, before the system changed. It's not that onerous to tick a box. This time, I can contact them if I want to opt back in.

You just have realised? Do you not read the stuff before you confirm your details and send it back? It has been this way for years.

If you ever need a landlord's check, a new employer's check or to buy age restricted goods on line - good luck if you opt out.

Yes, there was a letter came round a few weeks ago and I opted out and received another letter telling us that we had opted out and letting us know how to opt back in again.

Yes, JustaShopGirl. I just realised. Hence the post! I must have overlooked it on the initial form. Can you tell me how it would affect buying age restricted goods onine?

We always opt out. There's never been a problem with employer or landlord checks, or online wine orders, anything like that.

Isn't this option on the voting forms?
I postal vote.

Just, I've always opted out. I've been registered to vote for 20 years. I have never had a problem with any of the things you mention. But I don't get much junk mail.

No, they changed the law a few months back and are selling your details off; you have to opt out ie respond to the latest letter. www.theregister.co.uk/2014/08/15/voter_registration_rules_leave_brits_at_risk_of_spam_tsunami/

Thanks Funky. That makes sense. Just need to remember to opt out each time in future...