Telemarketers are one of the most dreaded phone calls for many telephone users. People have tried to avoid telemarketer calls with unlisted numbers, caller ID, call screening, Do Not Call lists and the law. The law is possibly the least considered; especially considering it is already in place for you the consumer.

The rise of cell phones has brought several concerns; including the concern over telemarketers gaining access to cell phone number lists. Many people consider their cell phones to be more private than a landline phone. Strangers calling this number can be received as an invasion of personal space and privacy. Several considerations must be taken into account before becoming too concerned over this issue.

First, there currently is no cell phone number list available to telemarketers. Numerous large phone companies had discussed creating a large cell phone database, but to no avail. As the cell phone movement progresses, keep track of what your cell phone company is doing with your number (and phone records). If a database does exist within your company, it may be possible to ask to be taken off the list. Many companies are concerned about customer fears and consequences to the company because of those fears. Try sending an email or writing a letter stating what you think about a cell phone number list. Enough of a similar opinion can sway the head decision maker of a company.

Secondly, the law is on the cell phone owner's side. It is currently illegal for a telemarketer to make a telemarketing call to a cell phone number if the telemarketer is using an automated dialer. Most telemarketing companies use the automatic dialer technique, thus could not call your cell phone even if they had gotten hold of your number.

If all else fails, you can register you cell phone number with the National Do Not Call List. A telemarketer cannot call you if your number is in this registry the number. This registry is the same one you may have registered your landline phone number with. You may register your cell phone (and land line) with this registry at any time.

If you are continually getting telemarketing type calls on your cell phone, do some research into what type of other lists you may be on. Sometimes signing up for something (magazines, free offers, etc) puts the phone number you have provided on a list salable to outside companies. You should also confirm that groups who do have your phone number do not create such a list, or at least ensure that you are not on such a list.