New website helps crackdown on junk mail and cold calls

Consumer Focus Labs has launched a new site to help consumers reduce unwanted junk mail and cold calling.

StayPrivate.org provides an easy way of opting out of receiving junk mail and sales calls by simplifying the process of registering with the Direct Marketing Association's (DMA) various preference services.

Consumers will be able to use StayPrivate.org to simultaneously sign up to the Mailing Preference Service (MPS) and the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) so they do not receive unsolicited sales and marketing telephone calls.

Head of Consumer Focus Labs Joe Cicero said: ‘For many people junk mail and cold calling can be a nuisance. This site makes the process of opting-out simpler and quicker.

‘At the moment people have to sign up for each service separately, providing the same substantial amount of information each time. The process is tedious and could discourage consumers from signing up. Furthermore, users are expected to re-submit their details again for address changes and when registration expires.

‘Our new site offers a single online form and the option of a user account which means customers only have to give information once and can easily make changes - saving consumers time and effort.'

The various preference services provided by DMA are an important resource for consumers. But to work properly they must be better known, easier to use and more effective. StayPrivate.org helps consumers take more control over their own doorstep, letterbox and phone.