You're so vain, you probably think this article is about you.(GuestOpinion)(toll-free numbers i8n telemarketing industry)(Viewpoint essay)

Response, April, 2006 by Roark, Carlton

Ever since the release of toll-free numbers with a prefix other than 800 several years ago, there has been an effort by some in the telemarketing industry to create a caste system of sorts that exalts toll-free numbers with an 800 prefix--and in particular vanity numbers--while relegating all others to a form of bastard status.

The arguments created against toll-free numbers with a prefix other than 800 (and even some with an 800 prefix, vanity and otherwise) generally resemble the following:

> More consumers know that 800 is a toll-free prefix vs. 888, 877 or 866. Therefore, those consumers may not call the latter prefixes at all, or will accidentally call their 800 equivalent.

> Toll-free numbers with an 800 prefix are more legitimate. ...

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