900 numbers

900 numbers are a type of telephone number used in many countries, which are billed at higher rates than normal direct-dialled telephone calls due to the inclusion of a service charge to the operator. These numbers are often used for premium rate services, such as information and entertainment services.

History

The 900 number system was first introduced in the United States in the early 1980s as a way to bypass the Federal Communications Commission's ban on using phone numbers for commercial purposes. The first 900 number was used by a television station in New York City to receive viewer feedback on a controversial issue.

Usage

900 numbers are used for a variety of services, including weather forecasts, horoscopes, voting systems, charitable donations, and adult entertainment. They are also used for telemarketing purposes, with companies using them to offer their products or services.

Regulation

In many countries, the use of 900 numbers is regulated by the national telecommunications authority. In the United States, for example, the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Communications Commission have rules in place to protect consumers from fraudulent practices associated with 900 numbers.

Controversies

The use of 900 numbers has been controversial due to the high costs associated with them and the potential for abuse. There have been numerous cases of fraud involving 900 numbers, with consumers being charged for services they did not receive or did not agree to.

See also

• Premium rate telephone number
• Telephone number
• Federal Communications Commission
• Federal Trade Commission