One netfriend wrote:

Just wondering what “techniques” peole use to witness to telemarketers when they call your house.

Mark’s response:

Various.

– As then about the weather in the country they are calling from. Get a detailed weather analysis of your local area.I’ve had telemarketers calling from teh other side of the world.

– Ask them for their home phone number as you have a scam youi would like to discuss with them later. I did … one guy gave me his home phone number.

– Tell them you are VERY interested … and then tell them your life history. “When I was a boy I used to …”

– Ask them how much they get paid for each call. Compare to the current rate for being a shoe shine boy.

– Read script – “Kenny! Put that knife down! … Are you threatening to kill me again? …No! NO! Kenny stop! …Aaaarrrggghhh!!!!” …. leave phone off the hook.