Here we go again.
Every so often an email goes around, warning that “Cell phone numbers go public this month.”
You are told to call a national “Do Not Call Registry” because “all cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies and you will start to receive sales calls.”
You are told “YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS.”
You are told that even if you called before, the listing expires every five years and you have to register again.
Wrong, nope, not so.
First of all, there isn’t a isn’t any directory of cell phone numbers – and the company that tried to start a “fee-for-use” cell phone information service gave up the idea in 2006! When companies were working on the idea, it was strictly “opt-in” anyway.
Next, most telemarketers use auto-dialers (robocalls) with pre-recorded messages, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) bans the use of either to call a cell phone – without the consumer’s consent.
Finally, while there is a national “Do Not Call Registry,” the FCC decided not to put an expiration date on registrations.
Even if you registered your cell or home phone number – the list is for any personal phone – when it first started in 2003 (apparently, that’s how long the “Chicken Little” email has been going around) your number is still listed.
If you still want to put your phone number on the list anyway, you can still call 1-888-382-1222 or visit www.donotcall.gov, but here’s the catch: not all robocalls are covered.
Here’s what the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which enforces the law that created the list, says on their “Q&A” page.
“Calls from or on behalf of political organizations, charities, and telephone surveyors would still be permitted, as would calls from companies with which you have an existing business relationship, or those to whom you’ve provided express agreement in writing to receive their calls.”
These groups can still register with the list, which will actually give them your number. Your move.
For more information on the “Do Not Call Registry” visit www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/alerts/alt107.shtm
