The only thing more annoying than a telemarketer is an automated message telemarketing... I mean you can't even get the emotional satisfaction of telling them off because an automated message is like my ex-wife; capable of talking but not capable of listening.

However, it apears the Federal Trade Commision is finally taking care of the problem, the robo calls not my alimony payments, as they just past a new law, fazing out the nuisance.

Starting December 1st 2008, all outgoing prerecorded phone messages must include an opt out option, and starting September 1st 2009, none of these robo calls can ever be sent to you period, unless you first sign a document, stating you want to recieve these calls.

There is one big caveat with the annoucement however... the law change will have no bearing on the 2008 Presidential Elections, meaning the automated message problem could still get worse before it gets better.

Story via here, picture via here