What's the point of the Do Not Call register?
A message from YourLifeChoices member Max:
Something should be done about this:
Like thousands of others, I regularly receive phone calls from telemarketers, particularly those selling solar panels.
As my number is listed with the Do Not Call Register, I have, on numerous occasions, lodged a complaint after calls have been received. Unfortunately this can be difficult because details of the callers are difficult to obtain, the caller’s number is only visible on my phone until I answer the call. To overcome this, I have feigned interest which has resulted in a local installer of solar panels calling me. After I have obtained the name and address of the caller I have made it clear that I am listed on the Do Not Call Register and hold him responsible for the illegal call because he is obviously the employer of the callers.
However, although I have lodged numerous complaints with the Do Not Call Register, nothing appears to have been done and the calls continue. The impression that this organization is a paper tiger is inescapable.
As the spiel that is delivered with these calls it is almost certain that one company is the main offender, but the phone numbers change. Obviously there should be checks and balances when people apply for phone numbers, similar to those in effect when bank accounts are opened.
I find it impossible to believe that it is not possible to trace these offenders and deal with them effectively. They often use local phone numbers, surely this would provide an opportunity to track them down if the staff of the Do Not Call Register had even the slightest interest in performing the duties for which, no doubt, they collect a generous salary.
Does the Do Not Call register work for you?
If I do not recognse the number calling, particularly when caller ID is 'Overseas', I do not answer. Anyone who is important to me, or with whom I have a business relationship (ie dentist, doctor, mums nursing home etc) has my mobile number. As for the DNC register, it is a toothless tiger.