You know what..I don't want people knowing what I do and when? How do you go all Thom Yorke and avoid being 'watched'?

[sorkycake]

How many databases am I on? Is someone watching where I shop? Why have I taken so long to get all ranty?
We had to replace our phone & went to the shop to purchase a new one. BUT the shop assistant was very insistent that he couldn't sell me a phone until I gave a load of personal details! Well...this got me really riled and now I'm looking at who knows what about me in a very paranoid way.
Where can I go on the net to find out more about it and do any of you have the same concerns? (or is that an incredibly stoopid queston?)
Does this route lead to cancelling direct debits and asking to be paid in cash etc?

This site is probably worth a look for you
www.no2id.net/

To avoid monitoring you really need a payasyougo mobile, cash wherever possible, no loyalty cards eg nectar, boots

You can write to the shop and demand that under the data protection act that they cease to process or use the information you provided and also ask that they return the original paperwork with your info on it.

I was offered some photos of DS and ended up completing an application form that took my name, dob, NI number and my mils madien name. 5 mins later sever alarm bells started ringing as this is prime identity theft info. Called trading standards and they gave me the DFata Protection bobs info. I cancelled the credit agreement and returned the pics.

I would also be syongly tempted to write to head office and voice your concerns too. Under Data Protection (if I remember correctly from my training when I worked for a big bank) theyare not supposed to ask for info that is irrelevant for the item you require. (e.g. If tou want a savings account, they don't need to know your ethnic origin)

Hope that helps. And remember, just cos your not paranoid doesn't mean they're not after you! If you are concerned you have every right to ask for your info back.
.)

Please excuse the awful typos btw