What`s wrong with giving D.O.B to the utility companies?

soros · 26 November 2013 at 2:46PM

Is it ok to give your D.O.B to the utility companies? Some would say that when they have your full address inc post code and also your phone number that it is enough. What harm can it do?

At one time it used to be just places like banks/building societies and insurance companies that requested it. What do you do if the water or gas/electric company refuses to discuss your account if you refuse to give your D.O.B? Are you not grateful that they are being extra vigilant with your account by putting in place extra security measures like having your D.O.B on file?

zaax · 26 November 2013 at 3:28PM

Why do they need it? What are they doing with it? ICO says no as well.

Cardew · 26 November 2013 at 5:19PM

They only want your DOB so they can direct 'appropriate' (I use the term loosely!) advertising in your direction.

Goldiegirl · 26 November 2013 at 5:24PM

I've noticed some tariffs for the over 60's.

It'd be appropriate in that instance to have the customers DOB

DigForVictory · 26 November 2013 at 6:10PM

It's a default security question & for systems requiring secure transactions, where the security software is bolted onto the outside, DoB is a basic part of the code. All industries trying to cope with "multi-channel security" will be looking for a fast, cheap, robust fix & the off the shelf bolt-ones all use DoB.

[Deleted User] · 26 November 2013 at 6:12PM

We have some info on our handheld computers about occupiers ages when they are over 65, likely to be slower to the door, poor sense of smell ( to smell gas ). I would think that the information is sold on to direct targetted mail shots to over 65s