Around the House
Stop Telemarketers - Do Not Call Lists
By Cynthia Kirkeby
Apr 18, 2008, 08:02

Do you hate getting a phone call by telemarkers at 7 am on a Sunday morning, when you were actually going to sleep in? I sure did. Although I understand telemarketing techniques, and have used them in business, I think they are more suited to a business-to-business structure. I don’t like them invading my home.

At one point, it had really gotten out of hand at my house. I was getting upwards of ten calls a night, and they were even leaving messages on my answering machine! Then, I learned about the magic list that could, at the very least, slow down the barrage of phone calls: “The DO NOT CALL LIST.” It seemed almost too simple. When a telemarketer calls, all you have to do is interrupt them (not always easy), and say, “Please put me on your “do not call list.” In many states across the country, they are required by law to place you on a list that removes you from receiving telemarketing calls for a minimum of one year.

Some states, such as Missouri, have implemented their lists with a vengeance. Violating companies have been fined penalties of $5,000 - $10,000 for calling someone on their list. Now, however, there is a national list being formed. It’s not in effect yet, but in certain states you can pre-register for it, so that when it does go into effect, you’ll be covered. The program is expected to launch during July 2003.

If you don’t get around to registering with your state program, just saying those magic words will substantially slow down telemarketing calls to your home. It took a few weeks for me to notice the difference, but then it was very obvious that the calls were dwindling.

So, don’t forget the magic words, “Please put me on your do not call list.” Also, take a few minutes to register with your state program listed below. You will be very glad you did.

National Do Not Call Registry

DMA’s Telephone Preference Service