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Jul 23, 2010, 10:43:24 PM7/23/10
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>World Privacy Forum's Top Ten Opt Outs
>
>
>
>As privacy experts, we are frequently asked about "opting out," and
>which opt outs we think are the most important. This list is a
>distillation of ideas for opting out that the World Privacy Forum has
>developed over the years from responding to those questions. The list
>below does not contain all opt outs that are available. Rather, it
>contains the opt outs that we believe are the most important and will be
>the most useful to the most consumers.
>
>Many people have told us that they think opting out is confusing. We
>agree. Opting out can range from the not-too-difficult (the FTC's Do Not
>Call list is a fairly simple opt out) to the challenging (the National
>Advertising Initiative opt out can be tricky). Our hope is that this
>list will clarify which opt out does what, and how to go about opting out.
>
>In this list, some opt outs can be done by phone, some have to be sent
>in a letter via postal mail, and some can be accomplished online. Some
>opt outs last forever, some have time limits, and others can be changed
>at will. If an opt out is on this list, it is because we thought it
>might be important enough to be worth whatever annoyance it may pose.
>
>Not every opt out is right for everyone, and not everyone will
>necessarily want to opt out. It is a personal choice. Take a look at the
>list below, and see if any of the opt outs appeal to you, or might make
>a difference to you in some way. And if you know of an opt out that has
>been important to you that we didn't include here, please send us your
>personal "top opt outs." We'll consider them for the next revision of
>this list.
>
>
>Top ten opt outs:
>
>
>1. National Do Not Call Registry
>2. Prescreened offers of credit and insurance
>
>3. DMA opt outs
>
>4. Financial institution opt outs
>
>5. CAN SPAM
>
>6. Credit freeze
>
>7. FERPA
>
>8. Data broker opt outs
>
>9. Internet portal opt outs
>
>10. NAI opt out
>
>
>1. National Do Not Call Registry
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The National Do Not Call Registry is a national list of phone numbers
>that telemarketers are not supposed to call.
>
>If you put your home phone number on this list, telemarketers are not
>supposed to call you. The Federal Trade Commission manages the Do Not
>Call Registry. Home and mobile numbers can be on the Do Not Call list,
>but you can't opt out a phone at your place of business (unless you work
>from home using your home phone number.) Also, the Do Not Call opt out
>does not stop you from being called by anyone you have done business
>with in the last 18 months. If you make an inquiry of a merchant, the
>merchant can call you for six months. Charities and politicians are not
>covered by the Do Not Call list rules.
>
>
>
>Important update: On Dec. 1, 2008, some new amendments made to the Do
>Not Call rules went into effect. The new requirements impact
>pre-recorded telemarketing calls. Under the new rules, telemarketers are
>required to give consumers an easy and interactive way to opt out of
>pre-recorded telemarketing calls, for example, an opt out through a
>voice command or a keypress. If the telemarketing calls are left on an
>answering machine, the pre-recorded message must contain a toll-free
>number that allows you to call the number and opt out immediately. Any
>types of telemarketing calls already subject to the Federal Trade
>Commission's rules for telemarketers are subject to the new amendments.
>HIPAA-covered businesses, like doctors and hospitals, are still exempt,
>as are political calls, and some calls made by banks or telephone
>companies. When would this new rule impact you? If you have already
>signed up for the Do Not Call List, this new rule would impact you in
>particular with businesses you have an established relationship with.
>Even if you have an established relationship with a business, if they
>leave you a pre-recorded message, they have to offer you an opt out, as
>long as they are not exempt from the rules.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>You can get on the Do Not Call List by phone (call from the number you
>want to get opted out) or you can sign up online. We prefer the phone
>opt out, not the online service. To opt out online you must provide an
>email address for verification, and your email address will be kept and
>can be shared with other federal, state, or local agencies "for any
>regulatory, compliance, or law enforcement purpose."
>
>
>
>* Opt out by phone: Call 1-888-382-1222
>
>* Opt out by TTY: 1-866-290-4236
>
>* Opt out online: https://www.donotcall.gov/default.aspx
>* To opt out of pre-recorded telemarketing calls from companies who
>already have a business relationship with you, you should be able to
>activate a voice or keypress command to opt out. If the pre-recorded
>telemarketing call is left on a voice mail service or machine, the
>message should include a toll-free number to call where you can then use
>an automated system to opt out immediately.
>
>
>
>More about the Do Not Call List:
>
>See the FTC info page: http://www.ftc.gov/donotcall
>
>See the FTC page on prerecorded telemarketing calls:
>http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/12/tsramendments.shtm
>
>
>2. Opt out of prescreened offers of credit and insurance (five years or
>permanently, at your choice)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>Opting out of prescreened offers will stop you from receiving offers for
>credit and insurance.
>
>Prescreened (sometimes also called "preapproved" or "prequalified")
>offers come in one of two ways from credit reporting files maintained by
>credit bureaus:
>
>1. A creditor or insurer may ask a credit bureau for a list of consumers
>who meet certain criteria, for example, a minimum credit score.
>
>2. A creditor or insurer may submit a list of names to a credit bureau
>to screen for consumers who meet certain criteria.
>
>The result of the opt out is that you will not receive prescreened
>credit card or insurance offers. Many of these offers come in the mail.
>If you do not want these offers, or if you are concerned about someone
>else picking up your prescreened offers, you may want to opt out. If you
>do want the offers or don't receive many, you may not find this opt out
>important.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>(Note: you will be asked to give your Social Security Number to complete
>this opt-out.)
>
>* Opt out by Phone: 1-888-5OptOut (1-888-567-8688). This is an automated
>phone system. You will have three choices: you can remove your name for
>5 years, add your name back in, or permanently remove your name. When
>you call in, you will be asked to verify and provide some information
>such as your name and home phone number. You will also be asked for your
>Social Security Number.
>* Opt out online: https://www.optoutprescreen.com/?rf=t Note: If you
>have previously opted out of pre-screened offers, you can also opt back
>in through this web site.
>
>
>More about opting out of pre-screened offers of credit:
>
>See FTC Privacy Choices for your Financial Information:
>http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/privchoices.shtm#whatstop
>
>See FTC Prescreened Offers of Credit and Insurance
>page:http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre17.shtm
>
>See FDIC Financial Privacy page:
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/faqs/index.html
>
>See Privacy Rights Clearinghouse:
>http://www.privacyrights.org/ar/FTC-OptOutPrescreen.htm
>
>
>3. Direct Marketing Association Opt out Services (DMA opt outs)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The DMA is the largest U.S. association of marketers - invoking DMA opt
>outs can diminish receiving marketing mail and catalogs.
>
>Only businesses that are members of the DMA will comply with an opt out
>request through the DMA programs. The DMA offers several flavors of opt
>outs. It offers a Mail Preference Service opt out, an email list opt
>out, and an opt out that lets you remove the names of deceased people
>from mailing lists. The Mail Preference Service should not affect your
>receipt of mail and catalogs from companies that you already do business
>with.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>You can opt out of the DMA lists by visiting the DMA web site. One of
>the lists requires a $1.00 fee if you mail in the opt out via postal mail.
>
>
>
>* Mail Preference Service, usable by anyone. This list reduces mail such
>as catalogs, etc. It also gets your name off of some prospect mailing
>lists. Online form: https://www.dmachoice.org/MPS/proto1.php. If you use
>the DMA online form, opting out is free. If you opt out via postal mail,
>you have to send a $1.00 check.
>* Email List Opt out. This list will get you off of some mailing lists
>and may help reduce some unwanted commercial email. Online form:
>http://www.dmachoice.org/EMPS/. Good for five years. This list will not
>act as a total cure for spam.
>
>* Deceased Do Not Contact List. By signing up for this list, you will
>remove the names of deceased individuals from marketing lists. Online form:
>
>https://www.ims-dm.com/cgi/ddnc_form.php.
>
>There is no fee for the list, but you will be asked for a credit card
>number to verify your identity.
>* DMA Do Not Contact Service for Caregivers: For those seeking to remove
>the names of individuals in their care from commercial marketing lists.
>Online form: https://www.ims-dm.com/cgi/dncc.php.
>
>
>More about DMA opt outs:
>
>If you opted out and are still getting mail or email from DMA members,
>you can file a complaint with the DMA by emailing them at
>privacy...@the-dma.org. However, remember that it can sometimes take
>one month or more until putting in an opt out will have an effect,
>depending on the type of list. Be patient.
>
>See information about all DMA lists:
>http://www.dmachoice.org/consumerassistance.php
>
>See Information about the DMA mailing list, detailed:
>https://www.dmachoice.org/MPS/mps_consumer_description.php?reg=C#how_to.
>
>
>
>4. Bank/Financial Institutions opt out (This section applies to banks,
>credit card companies, brokerage firms, insurance companies, and other
>financial institutions.)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>If you opt out, you limit the extent to which a financial institution
>can provide your personal financial information to non-affiliates.
>
>The financial institution opt outs are among the most important to
>understand, but they can also be challenging to understand. If you don't
>opt out, the assumption is that the financial institution can share your
>data in some circumstances. To quote from the FDIC:
>
>Unless you opt out, your financial company can provide your personal
>financial information (for example, information on the kinds of stores
>you shop at, how much you borrow, your account balances, or the dollar
>value of your assets) to non-affiliates for marketing and other
>purposes. (FDIC Privacy Choices page,
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/privacychoices/index.html#yourright)
>
>A non-affiliate is generally defined as a company that is unrelated to
>your financial company. The FDIC notes that a non-affiliate may include
>"Service providers ...., joint marketers--companies that have an
>agreement with your financial company to offer you other financial
>products or services, or other third-party non-affiliates--which could
>include companies that may want access to your financial company's
>mailing list to tell you about other products and services." (FDIC
>Privacy Choices page.)
>
>There is a great degree of variability between financial institutions.
>Some do not share customer information with non-affiliates, so they do
>not offer an opt out. Some take an extra step and offer customers the
>ability to opt out of both unaffiliated and affiliated marketing.
>Because the type of available opt outs vary from institution to
>institution, you will need to read the privacy notice closely. Financial
>institutions are required to provide privacy notices. These notices can
>sometimes be difficult to understand. The opt outs are controlled in
>part by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, a federal law that provides some
>privacy protections for customers of financial institutions.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>You may have received a privacy notice in the mail from your bank or
>other financial institution. If you missed it, simply ask for a copy of
>the company's privacy notice. They are required to have one. The privacy
>notice may also be posted on the financial institution's web site. Read
>the notice closely, and follow the company's directions for opting out.
>You can opt out at any time. By law, you are required to opt out in the
>way the financial institution determines you should, whether by letter
>or phone or online. We have not listed all financial institutions here,
>just some of the largest.
>
>
>
>* Bank of America:
>
>Opt out online: https://www6.bankofamerica.com/privacy/Preferences.do
>
>Opt out by phone: 1.888.341.5000.
>
>
>
>* Citibank:
>
>No online opt out found. http://www.citibank.com/us/d.htm and click on
>privacy for more information
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-888-214-0017
>
>
>
>* Chase:
>
>Opt out online:
>https://chaseonline.chase.com/public/privacy/privacyfilter.aspx
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-888-868-8618
>
>
>
>* Wachovia:
>
>Opt out online: https://www.wachovia.com/personal/forms/privacy_optout
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-866-203-5722
>
>
>
>* Wells Fargo:
>
>No online opt out found. Info at
>https://www.wellsfargo.com/privacy_security/privacy/individuals
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-888-528-8460
>
>
>More about financial institution opt outs:
>
>See FDIC's Your Rights To Financial Privacy Page, includes information
>about opt outs: http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/yourrights/index.html
>
>See FTC's Privacy Choices for your Personal Financial Information:
>http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/privchoices.shtm
>
>See FDIC's Privacy Choices page, this page has an excellent section on
>opt out:
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/privacychoices/index.html#yourright
>
>See FDIC's Financial Privacy Page FAQ:
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/faqs/index.html
>
>See Privacy Rights Clearinghouse How to Read Opt Out Notices page:
>http://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs24a-optout.htm.
>
>
>
>5. Use the CAN-SPAM Opt out
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The federal CAN-SPAM Act requires that a commercial emailer give each
>email recipient an opt out method.
>
>A commercial emailer must provide a return email address or another
>Internet-based response mechanism that allows a recipient to ask the
>emailer not to send future email messages to the recipient's email
>address. The law requires that commercial email be identified as an
>advertisement and include the sender's valid physical postal address.
>The message must contain a clear and conspicuous notice that the message
>is an advertisement or solicitation and that the recipient can opt out
>of receiving more commercial email. It also must include a valid
>physical postal address.
>
>The federal spam law doesn't work very well to deter most spam. However,
>any legitimate company using email for advertising is likely to comply.
>If you receive an email from someone you recognize as a legitimate
>company and it has an opt out, you can stop that company from emailing
>you again. This is a very powerful tool because it flatly prohibits more
>commercial email from that sender to your email address.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>Check to make sure the email is a CAN-SPAM compliant email. Some emails
>offer opt outs, but the opt outs are fake. How to tell the difference?
>
>
>
>* First, a CAN-SPAM compliant email will be labeled as an advertisement.
>
>* Second, it will include a valid postal address for the sender.
>
>* Third, it will include a workable opt out link of some type.
>
>
>
>If all three elements are present in the email, then there is at least a
>chance that the opt out is offered in good faith. You have to use your
>own judgment about each email. Transactional emails are not required to
>offer an opt out. For example, if you place an online order with an
>Internet merchant, the message confirming your order, informing you of
>the shipping date, etc., need not offer an opt out. But if you get a
>message a month later announcing a sale, that commercial email should
>include an opt out.
>
>
>More information about CAN SPAM:
>
>See the FTC CAN SPAM resource mini-site: http://www.ftc.gov/spam/
>
>
>6. Credit Freeze (also Security Freeze)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>A credit freeze (sometimes called a security freeze) lets you stop the
>disclosure of your credit report by a credit bureau.
>
>The result of a credit freeze should be that neither you nor anyone else
>can open a new credit account in your name. (A freeze will not stop your
>existing credit cards from working.) A credit freeze can also prevent
>insurance companies or employers from obtaining your credit data. That's
>why if you are actively seeking new employment or insurance, you may
>want to think carefully about enacting a credit freeze unless you are
>currently a victim of identity theft.
>
>The credit freeze is widely considered by consumer and privacy advocates
>as a potent measure to prevent some forms of identity theft. A credit
>freeze can be especially helpful to individuals who are having
>persistent problems with identity theft. Credit freeze is not for
>everyone, and not everyone has the right at this point to set a credit
>freeze.
>
>The way a credit freeze works is that access to your consumer credit
>report and your credit score are locked when you put a freeze on the
>files. A lender or merchant will normally not issue new credit if it
>cannot access your credit report or score. The benefit of a freeze is
>that you can stop thieves from getting credit in your name. The downside
>is that you are also stopped from getting credit unless you "thaw" the
>freeze. You can unlock your security freeze by using a PIN to unlock
>access to the credit file. Some states require the "thaw" to take no
>longer than 15 minutes. Some allow longer times.
>
>The ability to freeze your credit is available nationwide through the
>credit reporting bureaus. There is some variability in cost and details
>state-by-state due to variance in state law. (For information about
>which states have a freeze law, see "More about credit freeze" below.)
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>Here are two ways to find out how to opt out for your state:
>
>
>
>* 1. The World Privacy Forum's Credit Freeze page has a list of states
>that either have a credit freeze law, or have passed a law. Each state
>links to the official state information page about how to place a credit
>freeze, or to another information source for that state. Many of the
>official state information pages are excellent, and provide tips and
>sample letters. Even if you are not in a state with a law, as of Nov. 1,
>2007, you can still set a security freeze.
>http://www.worldprivacyforum.org/creditfreeze.html
>
>
>
>* 2. Consumer's Union has an excellent and frequently updated page on
>all current state freeze laws and requirements, with a link on how to
>opt out for each state and sample letters.
>http://www.consumersunion.org/campaigns/learn_more/003484indiv.html
>
>
>More about credit freeze:
>
>See the FTC Credit Freeze page:
>http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/credit-freeze.html
>
>See Consumer's Union frequently updated page on all current state freeze
>laws and requirements, with a link on how to opt out for each state and
>sample letters.
>http://www.consumersunion.org/campaigns/learn_more/003484indiv.html
>
>See the PIRG state freeze page:
>http://www.pirg.org/consumer/credit/statelaws.htm Links to the state laws.
>
>See California Office of Privacy Protection. Even if you don't live in
>California, this is an excellent page to learn more about how credit
>freeze works. If you are a California resident, you will find sample
>letters ready for you to print out.
>http://www.privacy.ca.gov/sheets/cis10securityfreeze.htm
>
>
>7. FERPA opt out (students)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The FERPA opt out stops schools from releasing student directory
>information (Name, home address, date of birth, and other information)
>without consent, with some limitations.
>
>FERPA stands for Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. If you are a
>K-12 student or a college student, or the parent or guardian of a
>student under 18, you should know about the FERPA opt out. While some
>parts of school records may be given out only with written consent,
>schools still have the right to give out what is called "directory
>information" without student consent, including potentially giving the
>information out over the phone.
>
>Directory information includes the student's name, school and permanent
>address, school and permanent home telephone number, school mail box
>address, major, dates of attendance, degree(s) received and dates of
>conferral, and other personally identifying information. There is some
>variability; some schools also consider the weight and height of
>athletes, the school email address, and participation in officially
>recognized activities to be directory information.
>
>If there is a FERPA opt out form on file for the student, the student
>can prevent the public disclosure of his or her directory information.
>Then, only legitimate employers or law enforcement professionals or
>others with a legitimate interest should be able to access that
>sensitive directory information. Victims of domestic violence may find
>filing a FERPA opt out to be crucial to them.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>FERPA opt outs are often done with a FERPA form supplied by the school.
>Usually school records offices will have FERPA information for you, or
>will know where to send you to find that information. Colleges and some
>other schools may post the form online. For students under 18, parents
>have to sign the FERPA forms. This will limit how students' home address
>and other directory information can be released.
>
>If you search the web for "FERPA" plus the name of your school, you may
>find detailed information about how to file a FERPA opt out for your
>school available online. FERPA opt outs may also be called "Restriction
>of Directory Information" at some schools.
>
>
>More about FERPA opt outs:
>
>See the U.S. Department of Education's FERPA site:
>http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html You can find
>more information about FERPA here, and you can find information about
>filing a complaint if you have opted out of FERPA and you believe the
>school violated the opt out.
>
>See the World Privacy Forum FERPA tips for jobseekers:
>http://www.worldprivacyforum.org/resumedatabaseprivacytips.html Scroll
>to tip #8.
>
>
>8. Data Broker opt outs
>
>
>What it does:
>
>Some commercial data brokers allow some categories of consumers to opt
>out of some limited uses and disclosures of personal information.
>
>Commercial data brokers acquire, purchase, accumulate, and sell
>information about consumers. Many data brokers have large data files
>with some information on most Americans. The data brokers have multiple
>lines of business that use consumer data in different ways. Data brokers
>offer some very limited opt outs, and not all data brokers offer opt
>outs. If you are a victim of identity theft, a law enforcement
>professional, or a victim of domestic violence, the opt outs may be
>important for you. Opt out policies can be challenging to find on the
>data broker sites. If these links below are stale, please let us know
>and we will locate the new links for you.
>
>We have mixed views on data broker opt outs. On the one hand, we think
>that a consumer who opts out does a good thing by exercising those few
>options that are available. Each consumer opting out helps to preserve
>opt outs for all consumers. However, the data broker opt outs are
>generally quite limited, and it is nearly impossible to tell just what
>effect an opt out will actually have. When you read the opt out
>offerings carefully, you will see that they are often qualified.
>Consumers who are victims of identity thieves, victims of domestic
>violence, public officials, and others may have the greatest interest in
>seeking what opt out options are available.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>Note: of the data brokers in this list, Acxiom, Choicepoint, and Lexis
>Nexis are the largest. If you are an identity theft victim, a law
>enforcement professional, or have a strong safety need to opt out of
>data broker databases, start with these three companies first.
>
>
>
>* Acxiom:
>
>You can opt out of some of Acxiom's marketing and directory products. To
>do this you will need to request an opt out by sending an e-mail to
>opto...@acxiom.com or by calling 1-877-774-2094. You can read more
>about Acxiom opt outs at
>http://www.acxiom.com/8588/consumer-information. There is also an online
>form available at http://www.acxiom.com/opt-out-request-form.
>
>
>
>* Choicepoint:
>
>You can opt out of some of Choicepoint products, with limitations.
>
>All consumers can opt out of the Choicepoint Marketing database. To opt
>out, go to Choicepoint's online form at
>http://www.privacyatchoicepoint.com/optout_ext.html#optout and then fill
>out the form.
>
>Some consumers can opt out of other Choicepoint products. Here is what
>Choicepoint says about this particular opt out:
>
>Certain states allow their public and elected officials to prohibit
>dissemination of certain public records. In addition, ChoicePoint may
>allow public and elected officials, including law enforcement officers,
>to opt out of certain PFG products and services in cases where the
>official is working undercover, on a high-profile assignment, or under
>threat of death or serious bodily harm. Public and elected officials
>must submit their opt out requests, in writing on official government
>letterhead, to: ChoicePoint Inc. Office of Privacy Compliance 1000
>Alderman Drive MD 71-A Alpharetta, GA 30005 Email:
>pri...@choicepoint.com Also, ChoicePoint may allow certain private
>individuals who are facing a substantial risk of physical harm or who
>are victims of Identity Theft to opt out of certain PFG products and
>services. Individuals who may qualify for this opt out must submit their
>request, in writing. Such requests must include documentation
>substantiating the risk of physical harm or the individual's status as
>an Identity Theft victim. Accepted documentation must include a properly
>filed police report, or a letter from a law enforcement agency, or a law
>enforcement contact familiar with the issue necessitating the request.
>Requests must be submitted to: ChoicePoint Inc. Office of Privacy
>Compliance 1000 Alderman Drive MD 71-A Alpharetta, GA 30005 Email:
>pri...@choicepoint.com For more on Choicepoint optouts, see
>http://www.privacyatchoicepoint.com/optout_ext.html#optout
>
>
>
>* Intelius:
>
>This company's opt out policy is difficult to evaluate. They say they
>will opt you out as a "courtesy," "temporarily." We do not know exactly
>what either courtesy opt out or temporarily specifically means, or how
>long exactly this opt out will last. Nevertheless, to opt out, go to
>http://find.intelius.com/privacy-faq.php#5 . Intelius directs consumers
>to fax or mail their name and address as it appears on its website to
>opt out.
>
>Intelius fax number: (425) 974-6194
>
>Intelius mailing address: Intelius, Inc. Attn: CUSTOMER SERVICE 500 -
>108th Ave NE #1660 Bellevue, WA 98004
>
>
>
>* Lexis Nexis:
>
>If you fall under three categories, you can opt out of some Lexis Nexis
>non-public information databases. (These categories include you if you
>are a state, local or federal law enforcement officer or public official
>and your position exposes you to a threat of death or serious bodily
>harm; or you are a victim of identity theft; or you are at risk of
>physical harm.) There is a detailed process for you to go through to opt
>out. If you are a victim of identity theft of have been the victim of
>domestic violence, this opt out could be helpful.
>
>See this web site for the Lexis Nexis process:
>http://www.lexisnexis.com/terms/privacy/data/remove.asp.
>
>
>
>* US Search Profile Opt Out:
>
>You can opt out of part of the US Search record profile. Specifically,
>you can opt out of information culled from non-public record sources. An
>example of this is information compiled from magazine subscriptions -
>many people do not realize that magazine subscription information is
>often available for sale through data brokers, mailing list vendors, and
>others.
>
>If you would like to opt out, you will need to mail in a signed request.
>More on US Search opt out:
><http://www.ussearch.com/consumer/commerce/about/privacy.jsp;jsessionid=0WgYmX6nG96xwxsPoXhG9A**.node4?adID=10002101>
>
>
>More about data broker opt outs:
>
>
>
>See the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse Info Brokers Opt Out page:
>http://www.privacyrights.org/ar/infobrokers-optout.htm
>
>See the CDT Opt Out Site: http://optout.cdt.org/ The CDT Opt out site
>was last updated in 2002, but it is still useful.
>
>
>9. Internet Portal Opt Outs
>
>
>What it does:
>
>Some large Internet portals allow some limited forms of opt outs. These
>opt outs can have varying effects, for example, some opt outs spare you
>from receiving unwanted email.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>We have not listed every portal that you could potentially opt out from
>This is a selection of opt-outs that some large Internet portals offer.
>
>
>
>* Amazon:
>
>Find out about choices at
>http://amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/102-6769060-6468131?ie=UTF8&nodeId=468496#choices.
>There is a Customer Communications Preferences link at
>http://amazon.com/gp/gss/ccp/. Note, you will need to sign in before
>seeing this page.
>
>
>
>* Ebay:
>
>After you have signed in to your Ebay account, you can make choices by
>finding the Preferences link under My Account.
>
>
>
>* MSN:
>
>At the MSN.com site, click on the MSN privacy link at the bottom of the
>main screen. Then look for Communications Preferences. You will be
>offered a series of links that allow you to exercise choice about the
>types of communications that you will receive.
>
>
>
>* Yahoo:
>
>Sign in to your Yahoo account and look for the Options Link. Click on
>that link and then click on YAHOO! Delivers. You can then select or
>unselect what types of advertising email that you want by checking or
>unchecking boxes with descriptions. Note: if you don't uncheck the
>boxes, all boxes will be automatically selected, so watch this closely.
>
>
>More about Internet portal opt outs:
>
>We encourage you to read the privacy policies of Internet web portals.
>The opt outs can make a difference, and one of the best ways to find out
>about the opt outs that are available to you is to read the privacy
>policy for that web site.
>
>
>10. Network Advertising Initiative opt out (NAI opt out)
>
>What it does:
>
>The Network Advertising Initiative (NAI) offers a centralized opt out
>system that allows Internet users to avoid some types of tracking of
>their web activities.
>
>Some online ads appear on multiple web sites -- these ads are generally
>called network ads. If you browse with cookies turned on (as many people
>do) at a couple or more of web sites with network ads, or make some
>purchases or register at those sites, then your activities may in some
>situations be tracked. In some cases, things you do online can be linked
>back to you personally by name or email address and then merged with
>other information about you.
>
>If you opt out of NAI tracking, it means that companies that have
>tracking ads at multiple web sites will no longer assemble a file of all
>of the places you have visited, will no longer link your web activities
>with you personally, and will no longer merge the web activities
>connected with their ads with other information about you. This is how
>the NAI describes it:
>
>While advertising networks do collect data on consumers who view their
>advertising, this data is often anonymous. However, profiles derived
>from tracking consumers' activities on the Web can be linked or merged
>with "personally identifiable information" (PII). It can also be
>combined with offline purchase data or information collected via a
>survey, census, or registration form. These activities are most often
>invisible to consumers.
>(http://www.networkadvertising.org/managing/faqs.asp)
>
>The NAI opt out uses what is called an "opt out cookie" to tell
>advertisers not to track you. This opt-out can seem counter-intuitive:
>you accept a cookie on your computer to make sure you aren't tracked
>using cookies.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>*
>
>Step one: You must accept third party cookies for this opt out to work.
>Open your web browser and check the cookie settings to accept all cookies.
>*
>
>Step two: Open the following page:
>http://www.networkadvertising.org/managing/opt_out.asp. You will see a
>prominent Consumer Opt Out button. After you click this button you will
>see an opt out page listing network advertisers with a checkbox next to
>each. This page is supposed to allow you to check and uncheck boxes,
>then click a button and automatically opt you out of all NAI tracking.
>In our tests of the opt out system, we found that the page can exhibit
>variable results based on the system used to access it, and does not
>always function at 100 percent for all systems, or at least it did not
>in our tests. Using computers running Firefox or IE on MS Windows and
>Safari on Mac OSX, our tests found that only some of the checked boxes
>successfully opted out. (The page has a feature that will tell you
>whether the opt out was successful or not.) Using a computer running
>Mozilla on a SUN Ultra, and computer running Firefox on Mac OSX, our
>tests found that all boxes did opt out.
>* Step three: If the page did not automatically opt you out of
>everything you wanted to opt out of, you can follow the individual links
>listed under each advertiser on the NAI opt out page. You may have to
>click through a number of pages before you can actually opt out. The NAI
>provides a phone number and an email for you to call if you are having
>trouble opting out: phone 207-351-1500, x110 or send an email to
>membe...@networkadvertising.org.
>
>*
>
>Note: After you have opted out, if you remove the opt out cookies from
>your computer, the opt out must be repeated. We reiterate: this opt out
>may be helpful and useful, but it also can be challenging.
>
>
>
>As privacy experts, we are frequently asked about "opting out," and
>which opt outs we think are the most important. This list is a
>distillation of ideas for opting out that the World Privacy Forum has
>developed over the years from responding to those questions. The list
>below does not contain all opt outs that are available. Rather, it
>contains the opt outs that we believe are the most important and will be
>the most useful to the most consumers.
>
>Many people have told us that they think opting out is confusing. We
>agree. Opting out can range from the not-too-difficult (the FTC's Do Not
>Call list is a fairly simple opt out) to the challenging (the National
>Advertising Initiative opt out can be tricky). Our hope is that this
>list will clarify which opt out does what, and how to go about opting out.
>
>In this list, some opt outs can be done by phone, some have to be sent
>in a letter via postal mail, and some can be accomplished online. Some
>opt outs last forever, some have time limits, and others can be changed
>at will. If an opt out is on this list, it is because we thought it
>might be important enough to be worth whatever annoyance it may pose.
>
>Not every opt out is right for everyone, and not everyone will
>necessarily want to opt out. It is a personal choice. Take a look at the
>list below, and see if any of the opt outs appeal to you, or might make
>a difference to you in some way. And if you know of an opt out that has
>been important to you that we didn't include here, please send us your
>personal "top opt outs." We'll consider them for the next revision of
>this list.
>
>
>Top ten opt outs:
>
>
>1. National Do Not Call Registry
>2. Prescreened offers of credit and insurance
>
>3. DMA opt outs
>
>4. Financial institution opt outs
>
>5. CAN SPAM
>
>6. Credit freeze
>
>7. FERPA
>
>8. Data broker opt outs
>
>9. Internet portal opt outs
>
>10. NAI opt out
>
>
>1. National Do Not Call Registry
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The National Do Not Call Registry is a national list of phone numbers
>that telemarketers are not supposed to call.
>
>If you put your home phone number on this list, telemarketers are not
>supposed to call you. The Federal Trade Commission manages the Do Not
>Call Registry. Home and mobile numbers can be on the Do Not Call list,
>but you can't opt out a phone at your place of business (unless you work
>from home using your home phone number.) Also, the Do Not Call opt out
>does not stop you from being called by anyone you have done business
>with in the last 18 months. If you make an inquiry of a merchant, the
>merchant can call you for six months. Charities and politicians are not
>covered by the Do Not Call list rules.
>
>
>
>Important update: On Dec. 1, 2008, some new amendments made to the Do
>Not Call rules went into effect. The new requirements impact
>pre-recorded telemarketing calls. Under the new rules, telemarketers are
>required to give consumers an easy and interactive way to opt out of
>pre-recorded telemarketing calls, for example, an opt out through a
>voice command or a keypress. If the telemarketing calls are left on an
>answering machine, the pre-recorded message must contain a toll-free
>number that allows you to call the number and opt out immediately. Any
>types of telemarketing calls already subject to the Federal Trade
>Commission's rules for telemarketers are subject to the new amendments.
>HIPAA-covered businesses, like doctors and hospitals, are still exempt,
>as are political calls, and some calls made by banks or telephone
>companies. When would this new rule impact you? If you have already
>signed up for the Do Not Call List, this new rule would impact you in
>particular with businesses you have an established relationship with.
>Even if you have an established relationship with a business, if they
>leave you a pre-recorded message, they have to offer you an opt out, as
>long as they are not exempt from the rules.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>You can get on the Do Not Call List by phone (call from the number you
>want to get opted out) or you can sign up online. We prefer the phone
>opt out, not the online service. To opt out online you must provide an
>email address for verification, and your email address will be kept and
>can be shared with other federal, state, or local agencies "for any
>regulatory, compliance, or law enforcement purpose."
>
>
>
>* Opt out by phone: Call 1-888-382-1222
>
>* Opt out by TTY: 1-866-290-4236
>
>* Opt out online: https://www.donotcall.gov/default.aspx
>* To opt out of pre-recorded telemarketing calls from companies who
>already have a business relationship with you, you should be able to
>activate a voice or keypress command to opt out. If the pre-recorded
>telemarketing call is left on a voice mail service or machine, the
>message should include a toll-free number to call where you can then use
>an automated system to opt out immediately.
>
>
>
>More about the Do Not Call List:
>
>See the FTC info page: http://www.ftc.gov/donotcall
>
>See the FTC page on prerecorded telemarketing calls:
>http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2008/12/tsramendments.shtm
>
>
>2. Opt out of prescreened offers of credit and insurance (five years or
>permanently, at your choice)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>Opting out of prescreened offers will stop you from receiving offers for
>credit and insurance.
>
>Prescreened (sometimes also called "preapproved" or "prequalified")
>offers come in one of two ways from credit reporting files maintained by
>credit bureaus:
>
>1. A creditor or insurer may ask a credit bureau for a list of consumers
>who meet certain criteria, for example, a minimum credit score.
>
>2. A creditor or insurer may submit a list of names to a credit bureau
>to screen for consumers who meet certain criteria.
>
>The result of the opt out is that you will not receive prescreened
>credit card or insurance offers. Many of these offers come in the mail.
>If you do not want these offers, or if you are concerned about someone
>else picking up your prescreened offers, you may want to opt out. If you
>do want the offers or don't receive many, you may not find this opt out
>important.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>(Note: you will be asked to give your Social Security Number to complete
>this opt-out.)
>
>* Opt out by Phone: 1-888-5OptOut (1-888-567-8688). This is an automated
>phone system. You will have three choices: you can remove your name for
>5 years, add your name back in, or permanently remove your name. When
>you call in, you will be asked to verify and provide some information
>such as your name and home phone number. You will also be asked for your
>Social Security Number.
>* Opt out online: https://www.optoutprescreen.com/?rf=t Note: If you
>have previously opted out of pre-screened offers, you can also opt back
>in through this web site.
>
>
>More about opting out of pre-screened offers of credit:
>
>See FTC Privacy Choices for your Financial Information:
>http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/privchoices.shtm#whatstop
>
>See FTC Prescreened Offers of Credit and Insurance
>page:http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre17.shtm
>
>See FDIC Financial Privacy page:
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/faqs/index.html
>
>See Privacy Rights Clearinghouse:
>http://www.privacyrights.org/ar/FTC-OptOutPrescreen.htm
>
>
>3. Direct Marketing Association Opt out Services (DMA opt outs)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The DMA is the largest U.S. association of marketers - invoking DMA opt
>outs can diminish receiving marketing mail and catalogs.
>
>Only businesses that are members of the DMA will comply with an opt out
>request through the DMA programs. The DMA offers several flavors of opt
>outs. It offers a Mail Preference Service opt out, an email list opt
>out, and an opt out that lets you remove the names of deceased people
>from mailing lists. The Mail Preference Service should not affect your
>receipt of mail and catalogs from companies that you already do business
>with.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>You can opt out of the DMA lists by visiting the DMA web site. One of
>the lists requires a $1.00 fee if you mail in the opt out via postal mail.
>
>
>
>* Mail Preference Service, usable by anyone. This list reduces mail such
>as catalogs, etc. It also gets your name off of some prospect mailing
>lists. Online form: https://www.dmachoice.org/MPS/proto1.php. If you use
>the DMA online form, opting out is free. If you opt out via postal mail,
>you have to send a $1.00 check.
>* Email List Opt out. This list will get you off of some mailing lists
>and may help reduce some unwanted commercial email. Online form:
>http://www.dmachoice.org/EMPS/. Good for five years. This list will not
>act as a total cure for spam.
>
>* Deceased Do Not Contact List. By signing up for this list, you will
>remove the names of deceased individuals from marketing lists. Online form:
>
>https://www.ims-dm.com/cgi/ddnc_form.php.
>
>There is no fee for the list, but you will be asked for a credit card
>number to verify your identity.
>* DMA Do Not Contact Service for Caregivers: For those seeking to remove
>the names of individuals in their care from commercial marketing lists.
>Online form: https://www.ims-dm.com/cgi/dncc.php.
>
>
>More about DMA opt outs:
>
>If you opted out and are still getting mail or email from DMA members,
>you can file a complaint with the DMA by emailing them at
>privacy...@the-dma.org. However, remember that it can sometimes take
>one month or more until putting in an opt out will have an effect,
>depending on the type of list. Be patient.
>
>See information about all DMA lists:
>http://www.dmachoice.org/consumerassistance.php
>
>See Information about the DMA mailing list, detailed:
>https://www.dmachoice.org/MPS/mps_consumer_description.php?reg=C#how_to.
>
>
>
>4. Bank/Financial Institutions opt out (This section applies to banks,
>credit card companies, brokerage firms, insurance companies, and other
>financial institutions.)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>If you opt out, you limit the extent to which a financial institution
>can provide your personal financial information to non-affiliates.
>
>The financial institution opt outs are among the most important to
>understand, but they can also be challenging to understand. If you don't
>opt out, the assumption is that the financial institution can share your
>data in some circumstances. To quote from the FDIC:
>
>Unless you opt out, your financial company can provide your personal
>financial information (for example, information on the kinds of stores
>you shop at, how much you borrow, your account balances, or the dollar
>value of your assets) to non-affiliates for marketing and other
>purposes. (FDIC Privacy Choices page,
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/privacychoices/index.html#yourright)
>
>A non-affiliate is generally defined as a company that is unrelated to
>your financial company. The FDIC notes that a non-affiliate may include
>"Service providers ...., joint marketers--companies that have an
>agreement with your financial company to offer you other financial
>products or services, or other third-party non-affiliates--which could
>include companies that may want access to your financial company's
>mailing list to tell you about other products and services." (FDIC
>Privacy Choices page.)
>
>There is a great degree of variability between financial institutions.
>Some do not share customer information with non-affiliates, so they do
>not offer an opt out. Some take an extra step and offer customers the
>ability to opt out of both unaffiliated and affiliated marketing.
>Because the type of available opt outs vary from institution to
>institution, you will need to read the privacy notice closely. Financial
>institutions are required to provide privacy notices. These notices can
>sometimes be difficult to understand. The opt outs are controlled in
>part by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, a federal law that provides some
>privacy protections for customers of financial institutions.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>You may have received a privacy notice in the mail from your bank or
>other financial institution. If you missed it, simply ask for a copy of
>the company's privacy notice. They are required to have one. The privacy
>notice may also be posted on the financial institution's web site. Read
>the notice closely, and follow the company's directions for opting out.
>You can opt out at any time. By law, you are required to opt out in the
>way the financial institution determines you should, whether by letter
>or phone or online. We have not listed all financial institutions here,
>just some of the largest.
>
>
>
>* Bank of America:
>
>Opt out online: https://www6.bankofamerica.com/privacy/Preferences.do
>
>Opt out by phone: 1.888.341.5000.
>
>
>
>* Citibank:
>
>No online opt out found. http://www.citibank.com/us/d.htm and click on
>privacy for more information
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-888-214-0017
>
>
>
>* Chase:
>
>Opt out online:
>https://chaseonline.chase.com/public/privacy/privacyfilter.aspx
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-888-868-8618
>
>
>
>* Wachovia:
>
>Opt out online: https://www.wachovia.com/personal/forms/privacy_optout
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-866-203-5722
>
>
>
>* Wells Fargo:
>
>No online opt out found. Info at
>https://www.wellsfargo.com/privacy_security/privacy/individuals
>
>Opt out by phone: 1-888-528-8460
>
>
>More about financial institution opt outs:
>
>See FDIC's Your Rights To Financial Privacy Page, includes information
>about opt outs: http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/yourrights/index.html
>
>See FTC's Privacy Choices for your Personal Financial Information:
>http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/privchoices.shtm
>
>See FDIC's Privacy Choices page, this page has an excellent section on
>opt out:
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/privacychoices/index.html#yourright
>
>See FDIC's Financial Privacy Page FAQ:
>http://www.fdic.gov/consumers/privacy/faqs/index.html
>
>See Privacy Rights Clearinghouse How to Read Opt Out Notices page:
>http://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs24a-optout.htm.
>
>
>
>5. Use the CAN-SPAM Opt out
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The federal CAN-SPAM Act requires that a commercial emailer give each
>email recipient an opt out method.
>
>A commercial emailer must provide a return email address or another
>Internet-based response mechanism that allows a recipient to ask the
>emailer not to send future email messages to the recipient's email
>address. The law requires that commercial email be identified as an
>advertisement and include the sender's valid physical postal address.
>The message must contain a clear and conspicuous notice that the message
>is an advertisement or solicitation and that the recipient can opt out
>of receiving more commercial email. It also must include a valid
>physical postal address.
>
>The federal spam law doesn't work very well to deter most spam. However,
>any legitimate company using email for advertising is likely to comply.
>If you receive an email from someone you recognize as a legitimate
>company and it has an opt out, you can stop that company from emailing
>you again. This is a very powerful tool because it flatly prohibits more
>commercial email from that sender to your email address.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>Check to make sure the email is a CAN-SPAM compliant email. Some emails
>offer opt outs, but the opt outs are fake. How to tell the difference?
>
>
>
>* First, a CAN-SPAM compliant email will be labeled as an advertisement.
>
>* Second, it will include a valid postal address for the sender.
>
>* Third, it will include a workable opt out link of some type.
>
>
>
>If all three elements are present in the email, then there is at least a
>chance that the opt out is offered in good faith. You have to use your
>own judgment about each email. Transactional emails are not required to
>offer an opt out. For example, if you place an online order with an
>Internet merchant, the message confirming your order, informing you of
>the shipping date, etc., need not offer an opt out. But if you get a
>message a month later announcing a sale, that commercial email should
>include an opt out.
>
>
>More information about CAN SPAM:
>
>See the FTC CAN SPAM resource mini-site: http://www.ftc.gov/spam/
>
>
>6. Credit Freeze (also Security Freeze)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>A credit freeze (sometimes called a security freeze) lets you stop the
>disclosure of your credit report by a credit bureau.
>
>The result of a credit freeze should be that neither you nor anyone else
>can open a new credit account in your name. (A freeze will not stop your
>existing credit cards from working.) A credit freeze can also prevent
>insurance companies or employers from obtaining your credit data. That's
>why if you are actively seeking new employment or insurance, you may
>want to think carefully about enacting a credit freeze unless you are
>currently a victim of identity theft.
>
>The credit freeze is widely considered by consumer and privacy advocates
>as a potent measure to prevent some forms of identity theft. A credit
>freeze can be especially helpful to individuals who are having
>persistent problems with identity theft. Credit freeze is not for
>everyone, and not everyone has the right at this point to set a credit
>freeze.
>
>The way a credit freeze works is that access to your consumer credit
>report and your credit score are locked when you put a freeze on the
>files. A lender or merchant will normally not issue new credit if it
>cannot access your credit report or score. The benefit of a freeze is
>that you can stop thieves from getting credit in your name. The downside
>is that you are also stopped from getting credit unless you "thaw" the
>freeze. You can unlock your security freeze by using a PIN to unlock
>access to the credit file. Some states require the "thaw" to take no
>longer than 15 minutes. Some allow longer times.
>
>The ability to freeze your credit is available nationwide through the
>credit reporting bureaus. There is some variability in cost and details
>state-by-state due to variance in state law. (For information about
>which states have a freeze law, see "More about credit freeze" below.)
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>Here are two ways to find out how to opt out for your state:
>
>
>
>* 1. The World Privacy Forum's Credit Freeze page has a list of states
>that either have a credit freeze law, or have passed a law. Each state
>links to the official state information page about how to place a credit
>freeze, or to another information source for that state. Many of the
>official state information pages are excellent, and provide tips and
>sample letters. Even if you are not in a state with a law, as of Nov. 1,
>2007, you can still set a security freeze.
>http://www.worldprivacyforum.org/creditfreeze.html
>
>
>
>* 2. Consumer's Union has an excellent and frequently updated page on
>all current state freeze laws and requirements, with a link on how to
>opt out for each state and sample letters.
>http://www.consumersunion.org/campaigns/learn_more/003484indiv.html
>
>
>More about credit freeze:
>
>See the FTC Credit Freeze page:
>http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/credit-freeze.html
>
>See Consumer's Union frequently updated page on all current state freeze
>laws and requirements, with a link on how to opt out for each state and
>sample letters.
>http://www.consumersunion.org/campaigns/learn_more/003484indiv.html
>
>See the PIRG state freeze page:
>http://www.pirg.org/consumer/credit/statelaws.htm Links to the state laws.
>
>See California Office of Privacy Protection. Even if you don't live in
>California, this is an excellent page to learn more about how credit
>freeze works. If you are a California resident, you will find sample
>letters ready for you to print out.
>http://www.privacy.ca.gov/sheets/cis10securityfreeze.htm
>
>
>7. FERPA opt out (students)
>
>
>What it does:
>
>The FERPA opt out stops schools from releasing student directory
>information (Name, home address, date of birth, and other information)
>without consent, with some limitations.
>
>FERPA stands for Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. If you are a
>K-12 student or a college student, or the parent or guardian of a
>student under 18, you should know about the FERPA opt out. While some
>parts of school records may be given out only with written consent,
>schools still have the right to give out what is called "directory
>information" without student consent, including potentially giving the
>information out over the phone.
>
>Directory information includes the student's name, school and permanent
>address, school and permanent home telephone number, school mail box
>address, major, dates of attendance, degree(s) received and dates of
>conferral, and other personally identifying information. There is some
>variability; some schools also consider the weight and height of
>athletes, the school email address, and participation in officially
>recognized activities to be directory information.
>
>If there is a FERPA opt out form on file for the student, the student
>can prevent the public disclosure of his or her directory information.
>Then, only legitimate employers or law enforcement professionals or
>others with a legitimate interest should be able to access that
>sensitive directory information. Victims of domestic violence may find
>filing a FERPA opt out to be crucial to them.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>FERPA opt outs are often done with a FERPA form supplied by the school.
>Usually school records offices will have FERPA information for you, or
>will know where to send you to find that information. Colleges and some
>other schools may post the form online. For students under 18, parents
>have to sign the FERPA forms. This will limit how students' home address
>and other directory information can be released.
>
>If you search the web for "FERPA" plus the name of your school, you may
>find detailed information about how to file a FERPA opt out for your
>school available online. FERPA opt outs may also be called "Restriction
>of Directory Information" at some schools.
>
>
>More about FERPA opt outs:
>
>See the U.S. Department of Education's FERPA site:
>http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html You can find
>more information about FERPA here, and you can find information about
>filing a complaint if you have opted out of FERPA and you believe the
>school violated the opt out.
>
>See the World Privacy Forum FERPA tips for jobseekers:
>http://www.worldprivacyforum.org/resumedatabaseprivacytips.html Scroll
>to tip #8.
>
>
>8. Data Broker opt outs
>
>
>What it does:
>
>Some commercial data brokers allow some categories of consumers to opt
>out of some limited uses and disclosures of personal information.
>
>Commercial data brokers acquire, purchase, accumulate, and sell
>information about consumers. Many data brokers have large data files
>with some information on most Americans. The data brokers have multiple
>lines of business that use consumer data in different ways. Data brokers
>offer some very limited opt outs, and not all data brokers offer opt
>outs. If you are a victim of identity theft, a law enforcement
>professional, or a victim of domestic violence, the opt outs may be
>important for you. Opt out policies can be challenging to find on the
>data broker sites. If these links below are stale, please let us know
>and we will locate the new links for you.
>
>We have mixed views on data broker opt outs. On the one hand, we think
>that a consumer who opts out does a good thing by exercising those few
>options that are available. Each consumer opting out helps to preserve
>opt outs for all consumers. However, the data broker opt outs are
>generally quite limited, and it is nearly impossible to tell just what
>effect an opt out will actually have. When you read the opt out
>offerings carefully, you will see that they are often qualified.
>Consumers who are victims of identity thieves, victims of domestic
>violence, public officials, and others may have the greatest interest in
>seeking what opt out options are available.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>Note: of the data brokers in this list, Acxiom, Choicepoint, and Lexis
>Nexis are the largest. If you are an identity theft victim, a law
>enforcement professional, or have a strong safety need to opt out of
>data broker databases, start with these three companies first.
>
>
>
>* Acxiom:
>
>You can opt out of some of Acxiom's marketing and directory products. To
>do this you will need to request an opt out by sending an e-mail to
>opto...@acxiom.com or by calling 1-877-774-2094. You can read more
>about Acxiom opt outs at
>http://www.acxiom.com/8588/consumer-information. There is also an online
>form available at http://www.acxiom.com/opt-out-request-form.
>
>
>
>* Choicepoint:
>
>You can opt out of some of Choicepoint products, with limitations.
>
>All consumers can opt out of the Choicepoint Marketing database. To opt
>out, go to Choicepoint's online form at
>http://www.privacyatchoicepoint.com/optout_ext.html#optout and then fill
>out the form.
>
>Some consumers can opt out of other Choicepoint products. Here is what
>Choicepoint says about this particular opt out:
>
>Certain states allow their public and elected officials to prohibit
>dissemination of certain public records. In addition, ChoicePoint may
>allow public and elected officials, including law enforcement officers,
>to opt out of certain PFG products and services in cases where the
>official is working undercover, on a high-profile assignment, or under
>threat of death or serious bodily harm. Public and elected officials
>must submit their opt out requests, in writing on official government
>letterhead, to: ChoicePoint Inc. Office of Privacy Compliance 1000
>Alderman Drive MD 71-A Alpharetta, GA 30005 Email:
>pri...@choicepoint.com Also, ChoicePoint may allow certain private
>individuals who are facing a substantial risk of physical harm or who
>are victims of Identity Theft to opt out of certain PFG products and
>services. Individuals who may qualify for this opt out must submit their
>request, in writing. Such requests must include documentation
>substantiating the risk of physical harm or the individual's status as
>an Identity Theft victim. Accepted documentation must include a properly
>filed police report, or a letter from a law enforcement agency, or a law
>enforcement contact familiar with the issue necessitating the request.
>Requests must be submitted to: ChoicePoint Inc. Office of Privacy
>Compliance 1000 Alderman Drive MD 71-A Alpharetta, GA 30005 Email:
>pri...@choicepoint.com For more on Choicepoint optouts, see
>http://www.privacyatchoicepoint.com/optout_ext.html#optout
>
>
>
>* Intelius:
>
>This company's opt out policy is difficult to evaluate. They say they
>will opt you out as a "courtesy," "temporarily." We do not know exactly
>what either courtesy opt out or temporarily specifically means, or how
>long exactly this opt out will last. Nevertheless, to opt out, go to
>http://find.intelius.com/privacy-faq.php#5 . Intelius directs consumers
>to fax or mail their name and address as it appears on its website to
>opt out.
>
>Intelius fax number: (425) 974-6194
>
>Intelius mailing address: Intelius, Inc. Attn: CUSTOMER SERVICE 500 -
>108th Ave NE #1660 Bellevue, WA 98004
>
>
>
>* Lexis Nexis:
>
>If you fall under three categories, you can opt out of some Lexis Nexis
>non-public information databases. (These categories include you if you
>are a state, local or federal law enforcement officer or public official
>and your position exposes you to a threat of death or serious bodily
>harm; or you are a victim of identity theft; or you are at risk of
>physical harm.) There is a detailed process for you to go through to opt
>out. If you are a victim of identity theft of have been the victim of
>domestic violence, this opt out could be helpful.
>
>See this web site for the Lexis Nexis process:
>http://www.lexisnexis.com/terms/privacy/data/remove.asp.
>
>
>
>* US Search Profile Opt Out:
>
>You can opt out of part of the US Search record profile. Specifically,
>you can opt out of information culled from non-public record sources. An
>example of this is information compiled from magazine subscriptions -
>many people do not realize that magazine subscription information is
>often available for sale through data brokers, mailing list vendors, and
>others.
>
>If you would like to opt out, you will need to mail in a signed request.
>More on US Search opt out:
><http://www.ussearch.com/consumer/commerce/about/privacy.jsp;jsessionid=0WgYmX6nG96xwxsPoXhG9A**.node4?adID=10002101>
>
>
>More about data broker opt outs:
>
>
>
>See the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse Info Brokers Opt Out page:
>http://www.privacyrights.org/ar/infobrokers-optout.htm
>
>See the CDT Opt Out Site: http://optout.cdt.org/ The CDT Opt out site
>was last updated in 2002, but it is still useful.
>
>
>9. Internet Portal Opt Outs
>
>
>What it does:
>
>Some large Internet portals allow some limited forms of opt outs. These
>opt outs can have varying effects, for example, some opt outs spare you
>from receiving unwanted email.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>We have not listed every portal that you could potentially opt out from
>This is a selection of opt-outs that some large Internet portals offer.
>
>
>
>* Amazon:
>
>Find out about choices at
>http://amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/102-6769060-6468131?ie=UTF8&nodeId=468496#choices.
>There is a Customer Communications Preferences link at
>http://amazon.com/gp/gss/ccp/. Note, you will need to sign in before
>seeing this page.
>
>
>
>* Ebay:
>
>After you have signed in to your Ebay account, you can make choices by
>finding the Preferences link under My Account.
>
>
>
>* MSN:
>
>At the MSN.com site, click on the MSN privacy link at the bottom of the
>main screen. Then look for Communications Preferences. You will be
>offered a series of links that allow you to exercise choice about the
>types of communications that you will receive.
>
>
>
>* Yahoo:
>
>Sign in to your Yahoo account and look for the Options Link. Click on
>that link and then click on YAHOO! Delivers. You can then select or
>unselect what types of advertising email that you want by checking or
>unchecking boxes with descriptions. Note: if you don't uncheck the
>boxes, all boxes will be automatically selected, so watch this closely.
>
>
>More about Internet portal opt outs:
>
>We encourage you to read the privacy policies of Internet web portals.
>The opt outs can make a difference, and one of the best ways to find out
>about the opt outs that are available to you is to read the privacy
>policy for that web site.
>
>
>10. Network Advertising Initiative opt out (NAI opt out)
>
>What it does:
>
>The Network Advertising Initiative (NAI) offers a centralized opt out
>system that allows Internet users to avoid some types of tracking of
>their web activities.
>
>Some online ads appear on multiple web sites -- these ads are generally
>called network ads. If you browse with cookies turned on (as many people
>do) at a couple or more of web sites with network ads, or make some
>purchases or register at those sites, then your activities may in some
>situations be tracked. In some cases, things you do online can be linked
>back to you personally by name or email address and then merged with
>other information about you.
>
>If you opt out of NAI tracking, it means that companies that have
>tracking ads at multiple web sites will no longer assemble a file of all
>of the places you have visited, will no longer link your web activities
>with you personally, and will no longer merge the web activities
>connected with their ads with other information about you. This is how
>the NAI describes it:
>
>While advertising networks do collect data on consumers who view their
>advertising, this data is often anonymous. However, profiles derived
>from tracking consumers' activities on the Web can be linked or merged
>with "personally identifiable information" (PII). It can also be
>combined with offline purchase data or information collected via a
>survey, census, or registration form. These activities are most often
>invisible to consumers.
>(http://www.networkadvertising.org/managing/faqs.asp)
>
>The NAI opt out uses what is called an "opt out cookie" to tell
>advertisers not to track you. This opt-out can seem counter-intuitive:
>you accept a cookie on your computer to make sure you aren't tracked
>using cookies.
>
>
>How to opt out:
>
>*
>
>Step one: You must accept third party cookies for this opt out to work.
>Open your web browser and check the cookie settings to accept all cookies.
>*
>
>Step two: Open the following page:
>http://www.networkadvertising.org/managing/opt_out.asp. You will see a
>prominent Consumer Opt Out button. After you click this button you will
>see an opt out page listing network advertisers with a checkbox next to
>each. This page is supposed to allow you to check and uncheck boxes,
>then click a button and automatically opt you out of all NAI tracking.
>In our tests of the opt out system, we found that the page can exhibit
>variable results based on the system used to access it, and does not
>always function at 100 percent for all systems, or at least it did not
>in our tests. Using computers running Firefox or IE on MS Windows and
>Safari on Mac OSX, our tests found that only some of the checked boxes
>successfully opted out. (The page has a feature that will tell you
>whether the opt out was successful or not.) Using a computer running
>Mozilla on a SUN Ultra, and computer running Firefox on Mac OSX, our
>tests found that all boxes did opt out.
>* Step three: If the page did not automatically opt you out of
>everything you wanted to opt out of, you can follow the individual links
>listed under each advertiser on the NAI opt out page. You may have to
>click through a number of pages before you can actually opt out. The NAI
>provides a phone number and an email for you to call if you are having
>trouble opting out: phone 207-351-1500, x110 or send an email to
>membe...@networkadvertising.org.
>
>*
>
>Note: After you have opted out, if you remove the opt out cookies from
>your computer, the opt out must be repeated. We reiterate: this opt out
>may be helpful and useful, but it also can be challenging.
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