Hi, I have an overdue British Gas account and today 2 men turned up at my property and told my partner about my debt and said that they would be fitting a key meter. I have since come home and there is a letter saying that I have agreed to have the meter fitted (which I haven't as I wasn't here). My partner didn't know anything about my debt and is not registered with British Gas as somebody that has authority to discuss my account. British Gas has offered me £30 as a gesture of goodwill because they divulged my infoatipn to my partner. Have the breached data protection?
Thank you for your answer - I have spoken to the CAB, Ofgem - Ofgem told me to contact BG for a 'Deadlock' letter saying that I've refused their £30. BG rang me tonight asking what it was that I wanted to resolve this, told them I was seeking legal advice, they also said that although what the guys did was wrong it's not technically a breach of data protection. They're going to call me back tomorrow after I've a chance to seek further advice!
The 2 calls have been Managers (allegedly) - I spoke the ICO this afternoon and they said it was a breach but it was a very short phone call - I'll give them another ring in the morning. Although what BG have done is a breach I just don't know how far I should take it.
At this stage you need to decide what you want the outcome to be. Then ask BG for that when you speak to them tomorrow. I suggest you request removal of the payment meter and a zero balance on your account with them. Be prepared to meet them halfway as settlement.