Is it Lawful for the US to Compile a National Telephone Directory? Essential Information Revealed
In the United States, phone books are a common source of contact information for individuals and businesses. These directories have traditionally been published by major companies such as YP (formerly Yellow Pages), Dex Media, and Comcast's advertising divisions.
The information in these phone books is collected from various sources, including telephone companies, public records, direct input, and data aggregation.
Telephone companies provide subscriber listings as part of the phone service agreements, serving as a foundational data source. Public records and government data contribute to verifying addresses and business registrations. Businesses and households can also submit or update their information voluntarily, often during marketing outreach campaigns or renewal requests.
Publishers may also aggregate data from multiple databases to compile comprehensive listings. This process combines automated data feeds (from telecommunications providers) and manual updates provided by customers and businesses seeking advertising placement, forming the content of printed and online directories.
It's important to note that the use of public records in directories is subject to state laws. Landline listings are typically collected for phone books unless the customer opts out. Many people are unaware of the opt-out systems, leaving their information exposed.
Cell phones are protected under the CPNI (Customer Proprietary Network Information) rules, meaning wireless carriers can't publish your number without permission. To remove your landline number from the phone book, you can contact your phone provider to request an "unlisted" or "non-published" number (which may involve a small fee).
Online directories such as Whitepages.com, AnyWho, and TruePeopleSearch aggregate publicly available phone data. Easy access to personal data can be exploited by malicious actors for stalking and harassment. The National Do Not Call Registry blocks telemarketers but does not remove you from directories.
There are tools available for users to manage their personal data in phone books and online directories. For instance, TruePeopleSearch provides a removal tool for users to request the removal of their information, and Spokeo has a help center where users can submit a request to remove their information. Whitepages.com has an opt-out page for users to remove their information.
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) gives California residents more control over their personal data. Congress has also debated nationwide data protection laws.
Robocalls are a significant issue, with the FCC reporting over 4 billion per month in the US. It's crucial for individuals to be aware of their options for managing their personal data in phone books and online directories to help reduce unwanted calls and protect their privacy.
Technology has become intertwined with general-news, as the collection of information for phone books and online directories is increasingly driven by automation. This automation, which often involves data aggregation from various sources, includes telephone companies, public records, direct input, and automated data feeds.
Lifestyle choices and privacy concerns are also reflected in phone books and online directories, as individuals have the option to opt out of having their landline numbers published, or request the removal of their information from online directories to protect themselves from stalking and harassment.
