How to opt out of the mobile phone directory

A new directory enquiries service is being launched on 18 June. The 118 800 database has millions of private mobile phone numbers, including those bought from various companies' marketing departments.

From the service's FAQ page:

How did you get the mobile numbers?

Our mobile phone directory is made up from various sources. Generally it comes from companies who collect mobile telephone numbers from customers in the course of doing business and have been given permission by the customers to share those numbers.

Your mobile phone number may be on the database without you realising it, and children's numbers may also be held, particularly if a parent is managing the account for them.

If you don't want to be contacted via the service, it's up to you to opt out. This will take up to four weeks to take effect.

There are three ways to opt out:

• Visit the 118 800 website

• Text the letter E to 118800 from your mobile phone

• Call 0800 138 6263 (although, not surprisingly, this number is currently experiencing high volumes of calls).


Read more on the privacy issues at the Register.