Tell callers it's an AI
Callers should know when they're talking to a machine. Being open about it is part of treating people fairly under UK data protection law, and in the EU the AI Act requires AI systems that talk to people to make clear they are AI. Linesteward says it is an AI assistant at the start of every call.
Recording and transcripts
If you record or transcribe calls, tell callers at the start of the call and say why in your privacy notice. Linesteward tells every caller that the call is transcribed. The transcript and a short summary appear in your dashboard.
Who controls the data
Under UK GDPR, your business is the controller of your callers' data: you decide why it's collected and what happens to it. Your AI receptionist provider is a processor: it handles the data for you, on your instructions. The law requires a written contract between you, usually called a Data Processing Agreement. Ours is at /dpa, and our privacy notice explains what we collect.
How long data is kept
Don't keep personal data longer than you need it. With Linesteward you choose how long transcripts are kept, from 7 days up to 2 years. Pick the shortest time that still works for your business.
Health data at clinics and dental practices
Information about someone's health is special category data under UK GDPR and needs extra care. Ask callers only for what you need to book or help them. Linesteward never gives medical advice and points callers to 999 or NHS 111 when something sounds serious. See how it works for dental practices and clinics.
No automated marketing calls
UK rules (PECR) don't allow automated marketing calls without the person's prior consent, and live sales calls must be screened against the Telephone Preference Service. Linesteward only answers calls. It calls or texts only when you or your customer asked for it, for example a booking confirmation.