In today’s fast-paced digital world, consumers are constantly bombarded with advertisements, promotions, and sales calls. One of the more persistent forms of marketing outreach is through what are known as trigger leads. Understanding what trigger leads are, how they work, and how to opt out of these calls can help consumers maintain their privacy and peace of mind.

What Are Trigger Leads?

Trigger leads are generated when a consumer applies for credit, such as a mortgage, auto loan, or credit card. When you apply for credit, the lender pulls your credit report from one or more of the major credit bureaus (Equifax®, Experian®, and TransUnion®). This action triggers an alert to other lenders, who then purchase your contact information from the credit bureaus. These lenders see this as an opportunity to make you an unsolicited offer of credit.

Essentially, trigger leads are a marketing tool used by lenders to identify potential customers who are actively seeking credit. While this practice can be lawful if done in compliance with applicable regulations it can lead to a significant increase in unsolicited calls and emails from competing lenders, which many consumers find intrusive and overwhelming.

How to Opt Out of Trigger Lead Calls

If you’re tired of receiving unsolicited calls from lenders due to trigger leads or are about to begin the loan process and want to ensure you don’t receive those unsolicited calls to begin with, there are steps you can take to reduce or eliminate these calls. Here’s how you can opt out:

1. Opt-Out of Prescreened Offers

   The major credit bureaus provide a way for consumers to opt out of prescreened credit offers, which can help reduce the number of unsolicited calls and mail. You can visit the official OptOutPrescreen.com website or call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688). This service allows you to opt out for five years or permanently. Opting out will prevent the credit bureaus from sharing your information with lenders for prescreened offers.

2. Register on the National Do Not Call Registry

   The National Do Not Call Registry is managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and allows consumers to opt out of receiving most telemarketing calls. You can register your phone number by visiting DoNotCall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you wish to register. While this won’t stop all calls, it will significantly reduce the number of unsolicited telemarketing calls you receive. It also can take up to a month to go into effect so registering at least 30 days prior to applying is ideal.

3. Directly Request Removal from Marketing Lists

   You can contact the credit bureaus and request to be removed from their marketing lists. Each of the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) has its own process for opting out of marketing lists. This might require filling out a form or submitting a written request.

4. Use Call Blocking and Filtering Apps

   Technology can be your ally in reducing unwanted calls. Many smartphones have built-in call blocking features, and there are numerous third-party apps available that can help identify and block spam calls. These apps can be very effective in managing unwanted calls but be wary – these apps may also unintentionally block calls from the lender you’re actively working with. Be sure to add your mortgage loan originator, processor, and callers from your preferred lender to the safe callers list so you don’t miss important transaction communications.

Conclusion

Trigger leads can be a nuisance for consumers who prefer to avoid unsolicited credit offers. By understanding what trigger leads are and taking proactive steps to opt out, you can stop the credit bureaus from notifying lenders that you applied for credit and reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. Whether you choose to opt out of prescreened offers, register on the National Do Not Call Registry, place a fraud alert, or use call-blocking apps, there are multiple strategies available to help you protect your privacy and enjoy a more peaceful day-to-day life.

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