Cell Phone Numbers Being Released
Release Date: September 28, 2005
Earlier today Supervisor Feiner posted an email stating that cell phone numbers were being released to telemarketing companies and urging residents to add their cell phone number to the National Do Not Call List. This posting was done at my suggestion and the information provided was erroneous. Although a national 411 wireless service is planned to begin in 2006, cell phone users will be required to opt-in to have their cell phone number added to that database. This might be beneficial to some users, such as small businesses who use a cell phone as their primary telephone. Presumably, because of the related privacy issues, some cell phone service providers such as Verizon Wireless have opted not to participate in this service. Moreover, FCC regulations prohibit telemarketers from using automated dialers to call cell phone numbers and since automated dialers are the standard in the industry for conducting this business, most telemarketers don't call consumers on their cell phones unless directed to do so. There is no downside, however, with having your cell phone number listed on the National Do Not Call Registry. You can have your telephone number listed on the Registry by calling 1 888 382-1222 or on-line at DONOTCALL.GOV. You may also have a number removed from the Do Not Call Registry by calling 1 888 382-1222. People wishing additional information on cell phone privacy should access the Federal Trade Commission's website at www.FTC.gov. The Police Department assumes full responsibility for disseminating this incorrect information and I personally apologize for any inconvenience or anxiety this may have caused. Chief John Kapica