Personal data shared to improve credit card access

Jersey's government will be securely sharing islanders' personal data, unless they opt out, to improve access to financial products such as credit cards.

In January the States Assembly approved an amendment to change the way information was shared with UK credit reference agencies (CRAs), which had been seen as the main barrier to successful credit card applications.

It said islanders' personal data would be securely shared from 30 July and would include names, residential addresses and dates of birth.

Minister for Social Security Senator Elaine Millar said for "some time" islanders have "faced a challenge when trying to obtain new credit cards".

She said: "We've been working in the background to address this and we are now making a positive step forward.

"Sharing our basic information will make it easier for banks to carry out the necessary checks and will give us more choice and greater access to credit cards in Jersey."

The government said banks and other providers in the UK received basic information from the CRAs when considering applications so the change would bring Jersey in line.

Those who don't want their details included can opt out by contacting Employment, Social Security and Housing Department.

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