Paul Schilter wrote:
Harry,
The newspapers around here have picked up on this. They report that this
is an internet urban legend. They say that a compiled list of names and
numbers will be given to a 411 database by a few cell phone providers. If I
read correctly, Verizon isn't going to participate. It also said that
telemarketers are now prohibited from calling cells phones.

Paul

"Harry Krause" wrote in message
...

I've read a little about this, both that it is going to happen and it is
not...but in any event a client sent this to me...

Effective January 1, 2005, all cell phone numbers will be made public to
the telemarketing firms. So this means as of January 1, your cell phone
may start ringing off the hook with telemarketers, but unlike your home
phone, most of you pay for your incoming calls. These telemarketers will
eat up your free minutes and end up costing you money in the long run.

According to the National "Do Not Call List", you have until December 15,
2004 to get on the national "Do not call list" for cell phones. You will
need to call 1-888-382-1222 from the cell phone that you wish to put on
the "Do not call list" or register online at www.donotcall.gov.
Registering only takes a minute, is in effect for 5 years and will
possibly save you money (definitely frustration). Make sure you register
now and pass this message on to your family & friends.



I maintain that my numbers, addresses, etc. are mine, and should
enjoy copyright protection, except in the case of tax collection,
fire response, etc.

The phone co. has no right to publicize my number, or address. If I
want it listed, I should pay to advertise that I am of a status to
own a phone. It is no bodies business but mine.

My views were submitted to the Canadian privacy comissioner, and the
lawyers are still arguing about it. They will probably never get
back to me again.

A class action suit to reimburse those who's time and privacy have
been abused would cost the phone co. a lot, among others, so they
fight it.

I would be inclined to forgive past offences in general below a
certain "hard" damages level, if that is what it takes to "change
step" for all of society. Past practice was OK, as it seemed to be
consensual, but it was early days. It would set a precendent in the
privacy issue.

You should not have to pay to have an unlisted number. Paying to be
listed should be your option.

Your government is at your command. Speak up.

Terry K