28 PROTECTION TOMORROW
Protection Matters is a new event format running monthly throughout 2021 to bring you bite-sized examinations under a variety of topics . Hosted by Gary Harrison , each session features an expert where both place a matter firmly under the microscope for an hour , taking audience questions as they go .
February ’ s Protection Matters covered the use of protection lead generation services and featured Steven Howard , Head of Mortgage and Lending Intermediaries Compliance Services and it really had the debate flowing . Therefore , we thought we would offer an overview for those either looking to refresh their understanding or who were unable to attend .
The aim of the session was to make firms aware of good practice and also the pitfalls to be mindful of when using these services . We were aware of a number of firms who were either using or had used these types of services to varying degrees of success , but it remains a hot topic and is regularly referenced in exchanges regarding business development .
From the outset , Steve made it clear that larger operations are at an increased risk of being investigated by the Advertising Standards Authority or the Information Commissioners Office if they get it wrong .
Gary Harrison
Senior Business Development Manager SimplyBiz Mortgages
... a data certificate gives provenance to and confirms appropriately verified data collection so that the firm that ‘ buys ’ the lead is doing so in confidence .
Referencing the whitepaper from Contact State and LifeSearch Protecting the Protectors – Setting the Industry Standard for Online Lead Generation , he brought our attention to the statement : ‘ Disreputable lead generation activity is driving clawback rates and increasing industry bad debt ’ but these risks could be mitigated should a universal standard of data exchange and certification confirmation be put in place .
Clarifying certification in simple terms , ‘ a data certificate gives provenance to and confirms appropriately verified data collection so that the firm that ‘ buys ’ the lead is doing so in confidence .’ Usually a data certificate can confirm things like :
1 The website where the consumers details were obtained
1 What that website looked like
1 What legal documents and / or notices that the consumer saw or consented to .