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Service Brings Fewer Telemarketers
Sheila Blair/ Outlook Reporter
sheila_blair@pipeline.owens.edu
One of the most annoying occurrences in modern America is the never-ending
string of telemarketing calls. There is now a “National Do Not Call
Registry” to solve this problem.
The National Do Not Call Registry cannot get rid of all of these callers,
but can definitely reduce the amount of unwanted phone calls.
The Federal Trade Commission has set up the “National Do Not Call
Registry” online at www.donotcall.gov and also at 1-888-382-1222.
A valid email address is required to register online and those registering
by phone must call from the number they desire to add to the registry.
Upon registering a phone number, telemarketers have up to 31 days to remove
the number from their lists. This will remain in effect for up to 5 years,
when the number must be re-registered.
The down side to the “National Do Not Call Registry” is that
political organizations, surveyors, charities, and existing business relationships
are all exempt from this list. However, these groups must also abide by
a verbal request to remove a number from their specific call list. If
they do not abide by this request, they may be subjected to a fine up
to $11,000. Those on the National Do not Call Registry who wish to wish
to be contacted by a certain company or group must express written consent.
There is no charge to sign your number onto the “National Do Not
Call Registry.” Hopefully, this will change households everywhere
and we can all have our peace and quiet with no unwanted disturbances.