Info Regulator warns companies against selling data

JOHANNESBURG - Persistent telemarketers continue to frustrate South Africans.

The Information Regulator has been bombarded with complaints recently.

It now says it's going after companies not complying with the law.

READ: Regulator receives 700 complaints over direct marketing

The regulator says the Protection of Personal Information Act makes direct marketing illegal without consent.

It has warned that companies or individuals who sell the personal information of the public will face the full might of the law if they are caught, and that includes jail time.

It says the selling of personal information is one of the biggest problems in the country, but it is developing mechanisms to put a stop to the trend.