Companies with 800 and 900 numbers can use a similar number identification technology to record your telephone number when you call. Some firms use your number to help retrieve your records faster and improve the quality and speed of handling your call. Be aware when you call that firms may also match your number to your name and address to add to customer lists created for marketing or service purposes. Cellular and cordless phone conversations are easily monitored. You may choose to avoid conducting confidential conversations on these phones.
Many companies use direct mail and telemarketing to reach consumers.
If you do not wish to be solicited, some companies let you opt out of these programs. To reduce the number of direct mail or telephone solicitations you receive, write to the companies that are contacting you and ask to be removed from their lists. Also, watch for special billing inserts provided by some companies which let you exclude your name from their lists. You will still get some mail and calls, but this will help reduce the volume. Major credit and charge card providers do not require a telephone number for identification.