Comparison Sites Warning

raskazz

Ignoring the fact that the OP seems to not understand the difference between an actual credit check and the kinds of checks he is referring to, I'm not sure what purpose this thread is trying to serve. Dunstonh has already explained at length why such checks present no issues to consumers.

Andy_Ches

NatFeerick, just to point out that I understand your comment and why you have raised it

JonBoy_SCFC

i had the same issue (searches are done at quote stage) but i've had it explained to me and have no problem with it.

The important thing people are missing is this: whilst the searches leave a "footprint", it's only me who can see these footprints on my own file. i.e. if a bank looked at my file they would not see the insurance footprints.

That's why it can't affect your credit rating in any way and nothing to worry about, so chill out and have a beer in the sunshine:beer::beer::beer:

hope this helps;)

NatFeerick

Thanks Andy_Ches

elektra

dunstonh wrote: »

Also, if there is inconsistent data being posted it can work against you as errors in data reduce your score and can also put you in to a position where a money laundering report notification is made.

So, quantity is not likely to be an issue then but accuracy of data is. Which really brings me to the bit that "worries" me and why I am looking for clarification in that people are often told to use fake telephone numbers of certain details on comparison sites. If these sites are making the checks at quote stage, as is being claimed, then that fake data could impact on the data held that is used to make future checks.

Interesting, because I have started to use a fake telephone number because I don't want them ringing me - some even ring before I have finished looking at different quotes on screen. There does not seem to be a box to tick on these comparison sites saying you don't want to receive phone calls.

Have also been known to use a false(ish) date of birth, but that is mainly on other sites e.g free Nivea sample. I do use correct dob and telephone number of course when I take policy out.

NatFeerick

On some sites generally you can just put a '0' in the telephone field, or if it requires a minimum number of characters just put all '0's. Recognise the need to give truthful info for insurance quotes. Suppose you ultimately have to make a personal choice whether the nivea sample is important enough to you that you play their silly data-gathering game

hels-bels_2

Can anybody tell me why an insurance company that I have no dealings with whatsoever run regular checks on my identity/credit rating? I have a fraud check service through my bank that has made me aware of these checks and I want to know if there is any way I can stop them?

dunstonh

Can anybody tell me why an insurance company that I have no dealings with whatsoever run regular checks on my identity/credit rating? I have a fraud check service through my bank that has made me aware of these checks and I want to know if there is any way I can stop them?

Are they identification checks or credit checks? Normally it is the former and they normally are generated if you use a comparison site or you are coming up to renewal from a previous check.

Nine_Lives

NatFeerick wrote: »

I just thought everyone should be aware when using insurance & price comparison sites, that some of the companies they search may search your credit record and that leaves a 'footprint'. It isn't clear - sometimes there is a clue in the terms and conditions but you don't always read those until you decide to accept a quote - this happens at the search stage. I have been caught out twice by insurance companies in the Admiral Group, once on motor and more recently on home insurance. I have never gone direct to Admiral and think it is an outrage that someone I have no direct dealings with can search my credit record - moneysavers beware!

I don't know about you, but i don't go firing off random searches.

If using a search engine (gocompare for e.g.) I enter in a false name, correct DOB, false telephone, correct car reg.

Anything they can use to identify me is incorrect - because you get no end of telephone calls.

Once i get a quote i like, i go direct to that website with the information & enter it. It's often the same or cheaper (i've found) & this is when i put in full correct information.

Result - less/no annoying phone calls.

Wutang_2

NatFeerick wrote: »

Please do not attack me for expressing my opinion. .

Yeah come on - I am also rather traumatised by that vicious assault.

Also, Natfeerik, have you any idea what you're are talking about?