No need to register your cell phone for Do-Not-Call

A number of emails have been circulating that warn you that your cell phone number is about to be released to telemarketers. The email has a number for the Do-Not-Call registry, claims that you must call from the actual cell phone number, and encourages you to forward this to all of your friends.

While the email may be well-meaning, there are several problems to look out for here. First, it is good to be suspicious of any email that tells you you MUST follow a specific procedure that requires giving up personal information. There is a 99% chance that these are "phishing" emails that are tricks to get you to reveal your personal information. Another key to look for is the tell-tale request at the end of the message to "Send this to all your friends." In fact, if I wanted to steal a bunch of cell phone numbers, I couldn't think of a better method than this! Send out a fake email message that looks well-meaning, have everyone call a number and give up some personal information, and BINGO!

Finally this well-meaning email does not have any information that points to the REAL do-not-call registry. A quick check of the FTC web site reveals that there has been an email telling everyong to register their cell phones, and that this is not necessary. In fact, the FTC provides a helpful document called "the truth about cell phones and DO-NOT-CALL."

So in this case, a 5-second validation process allows you to potentially save your personal information once again.

A copy of the email I received is located below:
____________________________________

Subject: Cell phone numbers going public tomorrow

Cell phone numbers going public tomorrow REMINDER....all cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies tomorrow and you will start to receive sale calls....YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS. To prevent this, call the following number from your cell phone: 888-382-1222.It is the National DO NOT CALL list.

It will only take a minute of your time It blocks your number for five (5) years. You must call from the cell phone number you want to have blocked. You cannot call from a different phone number.

HELP OTHERS BY PASSING THIS ON TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS. It take about 20 seconds.