Data protection leads to 'mistakes' in Sure Directory

Wednesday 25 September 2019

As this year's Sure Guernsey Directories start to make their way to local households and businesses, some people have been complaining about 'mistakes' and missing information.

Both the format of the directory and the information in it has changed for 2019 following changes to the Bailiwick's Data Protection law.

"The white pages data is consistent with the account details held in our billing system and therefore some directory entries may have changed formatting or names this year to align with account holders' information," said Head of Consumer at Sure, Mike Fawkner Corbett. "This is key for data protection and to ensure that we are managing our customers' data carefully and appropriately."

However, some Guernsey people were not impressed with the latest edition claiming their information was incorrect or had been printed after they asked for it not to be included.

Pictured: Sure Guernsey.

The company is providing a 'guide' to the white pages of the directory to avoid confusion:

• Home phone numbers are included in the directory unless the customer chooses to be ex-directory
• Mobile numbers are not included unless requested and addresses are not printed against standalone mobile numbers
• The names published are those of the account holder(s) unless purchased through the directory team
• Businesses which advertise in the directory have a number of additional fields that they can add to their white pages entry, such as email addresses and websites

Data protection has not been the only change to the directory, which now features more "community content".

"The revised format of the directory reflects this by including a section of editorial content and an updated Sure services guide," explained Mr Fawkner Corbett. "Tide times, restaurant menus, island maps and a wellness section all add to the directory's yellow pages with the aim of making the book a useful and regular reference for all islanders throughout the year."

Pictured: This year's directory features more 'community information'.

Although many companies in the island are moving in a paper-free direction, Sure said the directory is still a vital tool for lots of people.

"Up to 40,000 directories will be distributed over the coming weeks," added Mr Fawkner Corbett. "This number has been relatively stable for the last few years highlighting the value that islanders find in a physical format, even as more of our lives move to online interaction.

"The online version of the directory and companion mobile apps are a key part of the directory, allowing users to find the details they need wherever they are, including businesses that are close to you and flight times."

Any Sure customers looking to change their details or have them removed for next year's edition can contact the company on 700700.

Pictured top: This year's telephone directory.