Unless you specifically go through the convoluted motions, Verizon Wireless could share personal information with third parties. Stated in an online blog, Jim Gerace of Verizon Wireless outlines just what is involved.

Gerace opens with the statement “Verizon Wireless does not sell personal customer information to third-party advertisers. Period.” Notwithstanding, their contract states, “We (Verizon) believe that it will benefit our customers to be able to share information with Verizon affiliates, so that they can receive information about all products and services that Verizon has to offer, including bundled offerings of Verizon Telecom and Verizon Wireless. Customers who don’t want that information can tell us so, by “opting out”.”

From 2007, new customers have been offered 45 days to opt out. The process is not easy or particularly streamlined. To opt out, you need to login to your Verizon Account and through the ‘Phone Controls’ check your privacy settings. From this, view your Customer Proprietary Network Information Settings (CPNI) highlighting “Do not share my CPNI”. Double check your updates and click ‘Submit’.

[via Gearlog]