Originally published May 5 2005
Cell phone providers will not sell numbers to telemarketers, but the numbers are not completely safe
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Though cell phone providers have no intention of selling lists of cell phone numbers to telemarketing companies, that does not mean that cell subscribers are entirely safe from receiving unwelcome sales calls. In fact, there are several means by which telemarketing companies can get peoples' cell phone numbers. Telemarketers can pick up lists of numbers through job applications, pizza delivery, and just about anyplace that requires contact information. Thus, when people use their cell phone numbers instead of their home numbers as their primary contact number, they are opening up the possibility of getting their cell number on a telemarketing list.
If you own a cell phone you may have heard a rumor or read an e-mail that tells you telemarketers are about to get your telephone number.
Jen Schwartzman, public affairs representative for the Federal Trade Commission, said there is no truth to this information.
"Rumors about cell phone numbers being sold to telemarketing agencies have been floating around for some time," said Schwartzman.
"But just because cell phone companies are not selling your numbers doesn't mean you're safe."
Schwartzman said a great many people are using cell phones in place of home phones and putting their numbers on job applications, used for pizza deliveries or any document that requires a contact number.
"Lists are compiled from sources just like those and many more and sold to telemarketing agencies," said Schwartzman.
"So, just because your cell phone company protects your numbers doesn't mean there safe."
Schwartzman said there is a cell phone directory in the works which would allow people to call 4-11 directory assistance for cell phone users.
Jeff Fishburn, spokesperson for QSent, a public relations firm, said the 4-11 directory is in the works but is not what people might think.
"There will be no book or lists available with names and numbers," said Fishburn.
"Each individual cell phone company will submit names and numbers for the service but only at the customers request to be put in that directory."
Fishburn said this would allow customers who want people to have access to their cell phone number for business or personal reasons easily accesible.
That directory will be a nationwidenationwide service.
Fishburn said the only cell phone provider not participating in this directory is Verizon Wireless because Verizon has their own system in place for providing cell phone numbers.
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