| Even though caller ID systems are fairly inexpensive, | | | | turn the phone off, and let any messages go to your |
| you may still want to look for ways to eliminate the | | | | wireless answering service. |
| monthly fee. Fortunately, there are a number of | | | | Using Computer Software |
| solutions available. You may even find that not having | | | | If your computer is hooked up to your phone line, you |
| a caller ID will make it easier to avoid seeing all those | | | | may be able to purchase software that will intercept |
| mysterious numbers that show up. | | | | calls, and record the origin information. Many of these |
| Phone Based Systems | | | | programs will announce when you have a caller, as |
| Regardless of the type of landline that you have, most | | | | well as make it very easy to block unwanted calls. |
| phone companies will allow you to trace individual calls | | | | Even though you will always have to leave your |
| for a fee. If you press *69, or 1169 for rotary phones, | | | | computer on to take advantage of this software, you |
| you can find out the phone number of the last person | | | | will not have to rely on caller ID to trace your calls. |
| that called you. Unlike caller ID, you will not be able to | | | | Chances are, you would like to save some money on |
| retrieve numbers for calls that came in prior to the last | | | | your phone bill. Some of these solutions may also help |
| one. | | | | you save even more money on nuisance call blocking, |
| When it comes to your cell phone, all you will need to | | | | and other premium features. At the very least, if you |
| do is keep the phone on. As long as the caller is able | | | | rarely find out about useful calls on your caller ID |
| to reach your phone, a recording of their number will | | | | system, it may be better to simply use *69 when you |
| be left behind in your missed call folder. Or, if you | | | | need it instead. |
| simply don't want to know about missed calls, simply | | | | |