A recent addition to the cellular phone business is the ability to have an unlisted mobile phone number. There are many reasons to have an unlisted number for your cellular phone. If you are unsure of whether or not you need one, consider the following factors:

1. Often, cell phones are used for emergency communication. When allowing just anyone to have your phone number, you open yourself up to having your line occupied when something important comes about. You are also going to wind up using your cell phone a lot more than you intend when friends and family realize they can get you to answer anytime they want. If you are ready to be ‘on call’ all day, every day, you will not mind handing your number out freely. However, if you do not want to spend your time being at everyone’s beck and call, consider not listing the number. Then think carefully about who you allow to have the number.

2. If you are purchasing the cell phone for your teenager or younger child, consider the added safety of not listing that number. This way, the only people that have the number are chosen by you (or your child, if appropriate.) Impress upon them the importance of cell phone safety, and the effort to keep the number private so that they are not freely passing it out.

3. These days, telemarketers are not shy about contacting you any way they can, and your cell phone is no exception. These calls can come any time of day, including during that oh-so-important meeting with the boss about your promotion, or your child’s first solo singing performance.

4. Consider as well, the amount of personal information linked to your cellular account. Your address, billing information, payment history, and other important details are listed within your records. It can be easy for someone to obtain these things simply by having your phone number.

5. Finally, as many things do, the choice comes down to expense. Not all of us can afford the unlimited minutes offered by wireless carriers. Why waste your minutes answering calls to unwanted people? Giving your number out is a personal decision that can be kept personal by not listing your cell phone number.

If these factors are ones that concern you, consider getting an unlisted number. All wireless service providers can assist you with the process, many even online or by phone. You will be glad you did when you get your bill every month without unwanted call charges!!