A while ago, there was quite an uproar online about cell directories being released to the public. In fact, there are still many emails and warnings going around online that warn you about your mobile number being made public to anyone who wants to find it. It is very understandable that this would cause concern, as many calls coming into cells are pay calls, and because our phones are always with us, it feels much more like an invasion of privacy when unwanted calls come though.
You can rest easy that this is not a problem for you at this time. All of the major carriers have decided that this is not something that they think is a good idea for anyone. They heard what their subscribers had to say when the idea was first made public, and they stopped any plans they may have had immediately. If you are worried telemarketers can get your cell number, or that the ex that never really left you alone can get your private number, you can try to relax and know that at least for now, this is not something that is going to become a reality.
Though you can rest easy now, you should make sure you know that this could come up in the future. There are really no plans at this time, but as more and more have cell phones and the way the payments and minutes are handled change, this could come up again. Even then though, this should be something that will be opt-in only. That means if you want to be left out you do nothing. It still raises fears though, and that is why the plans were quickly abandoned.
When it comes to your home (landline) number, however, things remain as they have always been. Your landline number will be printed in directories both online and in the books that come to each home. If you don’t want to be included, this is something you have to set up with your phone company. You may have to get a private number, and then also make sure you request to be left out just to be sure. Don’t worry though, your cell number will never appear in this type of directory, at least any time in the near future.