Consumer complaint received 2024-09-05
Product: Credit reporting or other personal consumer reports — Credit reporting
Issue: Improper use of your report — Reporting company used your report improperly
Company: BARCLAYS BANK DELAWARE (SC)

I am writing to formally address a significant concern regarding violations of consumer financial privacy laws by Barclays Bank of Delaware Despite my previous attempts to resolve this issue directly with the Office of the President and other relevant departments, my concerns have not been adequately addressed. 

1. Alleged Violations of Privacy Laws The actions of these institutions appear to violate several key privacy laws, including : 15 U.S.C. 6802-6805 ( Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act ) : These provisions mandate that financial institutions must provide clear privacy notices, allow consumers to opt out of certain information-sharing practices, and implement stringent security measures to protect consumer information. The alleged unauthorized disclosure of personal financial information appears to contravene these requirements. 

15 U.S.C. 1681 ( Fair Credit Reporting Act - FCRA ) : The FCRA requires accuracy, fairness, and privacy in the reporting of consumer credit information. Disclosures to third parties without explicit consumer consent or a permissible purpose violate these provisions. 

Privacy Act of 1974 : While primarily applicable to federal agencies, this Acts principles on handling personally identifiable information should be observed by financial institutions handling such data. 

2. Response to Disclosure Practices While it is noted that Barclays Bank of Delaware disclose their practices in billing statements and Cardmember Agreements, this does not negate the requirement for proper consent and adherence to privacy laws. Specifically : Right to Opt-Out : The fact that institutions disclose their practices does not imply that consumers forfeit their rights to privacy or the ability to opt out of unauthorized information-sharing. The disclosure of such practices should not circumvent the fundamental privacy rights and protections afforded under the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and the FCRA. 

Consumer Consent : Even if certain practices are disclosed, financial institutions must still obtain explicit consumer consent for the sharing of sensitive information, especially with third parties. This requirement is crucial to ensuring that consumer rights are respected and maintained. 

XXXX. Inadequate Resolution and Request for Immediate Action Despite my attempts to resolve this matter directly with the Office of the President and other customer service departments, the responses received have been inadequate. The explanations provided fail to address the core issues of unauthorized disclosure and privacy violations and the ability for me to opt out. 

In light of these concerns, I request the following actions : Immediate Investigation : Conduct a thorough investigation into the unauthorized disclosure of my personal and financial information and ensure that all practices comply with the applicable privacy laws. 

Detailed Explanation and Remedy : Provide a comprehensive explanation of the actions taken to address these privacy violations and outline the measures being implemented to prevent future occurrences. 


Compliance Review : Ensure that all future handling of consumer information adheres to the requirements of 15 U.S.C. 6802-6805, 15 U.S.C. 1681, and the Privacy Act of 1974, and respect consumer opt-out rights as stipulated.