This phone number is not meant to be used for customer service but for finding out and choosing to opt out of Western Union's data-sharing policy. When calling this number, you're taken to an automated menu that allows you to hear the data-sharing policy for yourself.
Should you choose to do so, it's explained that Western Union has the right to collect and share your data in certain ways unless you opt out of their sharing program. Western Union further explains that the entire statement is available on its website and that customers can read it at their own convenience.
Given that Western Union, by its nature, collects sensitive information about its customers who use some of its services, it makes sense to provide this information over the phone as well as through its website. The company does offer you the ability to ask any questions about the privacy statement by contacting an in-person representative, or you can simply choose to begin the opt-out process over the automated system.
This number can also be used to connect to a customer service representative to discuss other matters, thanks to the setup of the automated system. If you have dialed this number for basic customer service, you can tell the system that you're not calling to learn about the privacy policy, and you'll be connected to the main automated system. From there, you can be put through to a customer service rep and proceed as a standard call.
Overall, I think this number is effective for its purpose, which is necessary given what Western Union does. Many people will need to have this privacy statement explained to them, especially in a world where data breaches are always possible and Western Union has long been a favorite target for scammers. Having this privacy policy in place and allowing customers to hear it for themselves can help them make an informed decision about whether or not opting out of it makes sense for them.
Adding the ability to opt out over the phone or ask questions to clear things up makes this a useful number for protecting your personal data, should that be a concern. It's not meant to be used for basic everyday needs, but the system does allow for that possibility should this be the only number you know. If I were a Western Union customer, I would absolutely use this number to opt out of sharing to protect my personal information.