Thom's Commercial Directory

Fallen Seraph

I'm not sure if this is the correct place to ask this, seeing as how it's two questions, so if this is an inappropriate place to ask it, feel free to move it.


I would like some insight into the workings and legality of Thom's Commercial Directory. I'm able to find very little substantive information on the methods used by the company to collect the data in the first place. How do they collect the data?

They don't appear to be an official body, are they governed by the data protection act? Are they entitled to have data about me, without my knowledge? Do I have any rights with regard to getting my data taken off of their database?

I scrupulously tick "Do not share my information with third parties" on forms, and I would be extremely irked to know that someone is making a profit by selling my information without my consent.

Victor

Fallen Seraph wrote:

I would like some insight into the workings and legality of Thom's Commercial Directory. I'm able to find very little substantive information on the methods used by the company to collect the data in the first place. How do they collect the data?

I only know the main directory, not the commercial one. Much of the main directory is from register of electors and council rates.

They don't appear to be an official body, are they governed by the data protection act?

Yes. However, assuming you are a business, the rules are slightly different.

Are they entitled to have data about me, without my knowledge?

Yes. I personally have details on many people in my eircom phone book.

Do I have any rights with regard to getting my data taken off of their database?

I imagine if you ask them nicely and explain the situation they will. You should also be able to get them to tell you where they got your information (you might have to pay a fee of €5-10 for this).

I scrupulously tick "Do not share my information with third parties" on forms, and I would be extremely irked to know that someone is making a profit by selling my information without my consent.

Lots of these are worded to catch you out.

Fallen Seraph

Thanks a lot for the info.