Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Do Not Call

Lately I have been getting a call on my mobile phone from a number I don't recognize. It happens that I always seem to be in a meeting or tied up during the call and so I have yet to answer. Caller ID is nice as I can see the number. Normally I wouldn't bother calling a strange number back, but it happens to be from a location where I have extended family. Yesterday I decided to try and call the number back just in case it was a long-lost relative telling me I had inherited a bunch of money. Actually I knew it wasn't about any inheritance as I have so many extended family members that any wealth would be spread so thin, my share would only amount to a few pennies, but curiosity got the better of me and so I called.

That was a huge mistake. A recorded message answered the phone at the other end and said something along the lines of, "Thank you for calling this marketing company back." I immediately hung up realizing I made a huge mistake. Now they know my phone actually has a person on the other end. This morning I got another call from the same number. Once I got in front of a computer, I immediately went to the "Do Not Call" registry and made sure to enter my mobile number on the list. Anyone that wants to avoid pesky telemarketers should do the same.

The process if fairly simple. Just enter up to 3 numbers and your e-mail address. They will send you an e-mail with a link to click and complete the process. A second after entering my mobile number I had an e-mail in my inbox asking to confirm my phone number. I clicked the link and was told my number is now on the list. I have to suffer through any telemarketers for the next 31 day, however after that I can file a complaint should I receive a call. Yes, complaints can be filed at the same website. I only wish the list was good for charities, political organizations, and telephone surveyors. They still get to call. Bummer!