'Hello is that the householder?'

— BT reminds consumers to protect privacy and block unsolicited calls

BT is reminding its customers that they can put an end to unsolicited sales calls from telemarketers by registering for BT Privacy, the company's free service which blocks unwanted telemarketing calls.

Having noticed an increase in requests from its customers to see what BT, as their telephone provider, could do to help stop unwanted calls, BT has decided to issue a reminder to its customers to register for BT Privacy. This innovative product from BT allows its customers to protect their right to enjoy uninterrupted quality time at home and ensure that the calls they receive at home are calls they want, not cold calls from telemarketers.

To avail of the free service customers simply need to call BT Customer Care on 1904 who will ensure that customer records on the National Directory Database (see Editors Notes) are updated to 'no contact' status for cold calls. This will ensure that no telemarketing companies are permitted to contact the householder.

BT is optimistic that by reminding customers to register for the free service, reports of the number of cold or unsolicited calls will decrease in the months ahead.

According to Micheál Burke, Director of BT's Consumer Division, 'People value their privacy and deserve to enjoy uninterrupted quality time at home. The increase in telemarketing activity in recent months perhaps reflects a more aggressive approach to sales being adopted by a number of companies and organisations during economic recession. We are keen to remind our customers that a free service exists which will block unwanted calls and ensure that they can enjoy the privacy of their own homes without cold calls from telemarketers'. More details on BT Privacy are available by calling BT's Customer Care representatives on Freephone 1904.