Though you may be inclined to act out or confront the individual, ignoring the chatter is sometimes the best answer. Contemplate this: the individual did not consider uttering what they said to your face. Don't give them the option of going any farther. Stop the negative train by ignoring it altogether. If you can't ignore them, then go up to them calmly and say something like "You know, I really don't think much of what you just said about me. And even though you have the right to say whatever you want, that doesn't make what you said true. Good luck with your next project!" Don't let them get to you. If others are taking advantage of you, then you need to set some boundaries. For example, you could say something like "I appreciate your help on this project, but from now on, I want you to stop answering the phone while I'm at work." That way, other people know that you aren't available and will leave you alone. This shows that you are aware of what they are saying and that you don't want to hurt their feelings by ignoring them.