The National Do Not Call List (DNCL) is a Canadian program "...created to enable Canadian consumers to reduce the number of unsolicited telemarketing calls they receive. Every year, thousands of Canadians raise concerns about receiving unwanted telemarketing calls. In 2006, the federal government passed a law to allow for the creation of a National DNCL that all telemarketers must respect. "

Ways I have preciously handled telemarketing calls include not picking up the phone or picking it up and hanging up ready away. There have also been times I've picked up the receiver and immediately placed it on the counter while I go do something else, such as poor a glass of milk, then wait for the beeping.

In a conversation I had with some coworkers we decided that if you can't beat 'em, join 'em! So the next time a telemarketer calls we should try to sell them something. I have an old CRT television I'd like to get rid of.

Or how about this - pretend to be old and discuss your failing body and its various ailments. I'm sure they won't call you back ever again.

The downside to these is that the person calling is just that - a person. They are just doing their job and have feelings like the rest of us. I suppose we should not forget that, but it's tough to not get upset when you are trying to enjoy a nice dinner at home.  I'll just stick with the DNCL though it sure is fun to think of ways to get back at telemarketers.