If you recently applied for a mortgage and suddenly started getting calls, emails, or texts from other lenders, you’re not alone. This can feel invasive and confusing—especially if you didn’t expect your personal information to be shared. So what’s going on?

The answer lies in something called a trigger lead.

What Is a Trigger Lead?

When a lender pulls your credit as part of a mortgage application, the credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—are legally allowed to sell your information to other lenders. These are known as “trigger leads” because your mortgage credit inquiry triggers the sale.

This lead data includes basic details like your name, contact information, and the fact that you're shopping for a mortgage—not your actual credit score or full report. Other lenders buy this information to try to offer you competing loan options.

It’s legal. But it can definitely feel intrusive.

[Source: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/what-to-know-about-trigger-leads/]

How to Protect Yourself from Trigger Lead Spam

There are a few ways to reduce or eliminate the unwanted calls and emails:

• Opt out of prescreened credit offers at www.optoutprescreen.com. This is the official website authorized by the credit bureaus, and opting out can reduce how often your data is sold.

• Register with the National Do Not Call Registry at www.donotcall.gov.

• Use a Google Voice number or other call screening tool when applying for a mortgage, so your main number doesn’t get overwhelmed.

It’s worth noting that even if you opt out today, your information may still be shared from the initial inquiry for a short time—so you may continue to receive calls for a few days or weeks.

Why Does This Happen in the First Place?

Credit bureaus profit from selling your data, and federal law allows them to do it unless you opt out. While this may give you a chance to compare rates, many consumers find it frustrating and overwhelming.

Unfortunately, your original lender cannot prevent this from happening. They don't sell your data—but the credit bureaus do once your credit is pulled.

What You Can Do Next

If you’re actively working with a mortgage professional and you trust them, ignore the spam calls. Most of those callers are aggressive sales reps working off limited info. They may make bold claims about better rates—but without reviewing your full file, they’re guessing.

Stick with the lender who’s transparent, responsive, and knows your full financial picture.

Sources for Further Reading:

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB):
  https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/what-to-know-about-trigger-leads/

• Opt Out of Pre-Screened Offers:
  https://www.optoutprescreen.com/

• Do Not Call Registry:
  https://www.donotcall.gov/