Nothing's More Annoying Than Dinner Interrupted By An Unwanted Call
Caller ID is perhaps your greatest weapon against unwanted calls. While it really is not practical to screen all your calls, Caller ID is a good start towards stopping telemarketers and annoying calls because it allows you to track a number. When you get an unwanted call, always take the time to note what number it came from. Sometimes this number will seem familiar, but often it will come from a strange area code. Whatever the case, there are even some ways to find out more about it.
This often times unknown number is the best way to track unwanted calls. That way, you can compare it against other unwanted callers' numbers as a way to see if someone is calling repeatedly. You can also keep the number of file to take further action through caller complaints websites, which allow you to not only file a formal complaint, but also read others' experiences and check telemarketing numbers against the unwanted calls blacklist.
So, if you want to trace and ultimately stop telemarketers and annoying calls, the first thing to do is be aware of your rights as a consumer. There are times, like late evening, when telemarketers are not allowed to call. While not all dinners interrupted by unwanted calls are in violation of federal guidelines, they are at least cause to read up on the rules that govern telemarketers and how they apply to you.