Data protection can't be blamed for phonebook mistakes

Friday 27 September 2019

Sure cannot blame data protection for "distressing" mistakes in this year's phonebook, according to the Bailiwick's Office of the Data Protection Authority.

The 2019/2020 directory was released earlier this month and locals have been quick to notice mistakes, with some ex-directory numbers being wrongly printed.

When questioned about the directory issues, Sure said changes to the islands' data protection laws were partly to blame.

However, the ODPA said the legislation, which came into effect last year, does not require the telecoms company to alter its previous practice of allowing customers to specify how their entry appears in the book.

Pictured: Sure's 2019/2020 Directory.

"Data protection is entirely about protecting people," said Data Protection Commissioner, Emma Martins. "I am very concerned that it would appear a number of ex-directory phone numbers have been published in error. Some people rely on ex-directory status for their personal safety, so exposing their personal data in this way can be very distressing and potentially puts them at risk."

The company itself and a number of concerned customers have contacted the ODPA about previously ex-directory information being included in the phonebook.

Any affected customers are asked to contact Sure in the first instance.

Pictured top: Emma Martins.