"Slamming" is the switching of your long distance or local telephone service without your permission-it is illegal. You may not know you have been "slammed" until you find a different company name on your bill, or your phone charges are higher than normal. If you've been slammed:

• Ask your local phone company to switch you back to your original company at no charge


• Tell the original company you're switching back, and ask to be enrolled in your previous calling plan


• Contact the company that slammed you-its name and number will be on your bill-and tell them you are exercising your right to refuse to pay charges

If you're unable to resolve your complaint, contact the FCC.

"Cramming" occurs when companies add charges to your telephone bill for optional services you never agreed to, such as voicemail or "club memberships." You may not notice these monthly charges because they are relatively small, $5 to $30, and look like your regular phone charges.

Take these steps to avoid slammers and crammers:

• Consider putting a "block" on changes to your phone service. Ask your telephone service provider if they offer a blocking service, which usually requires the company to notify you before making any changes to your service.


• Read the fine print on contest entry forms and coupons. You could be agreeing to switch your phone service or buy optional services.


• Watch out for impostors. Companies could falsely claim to be your regular phone company and offer some type of discount plan or change in billing. They might also say they are taking a survey or pretend to be a government agency.


• Beware of "negative option notices." You can be switched or signed up for optional services unless you say no.


• Examine your telephone bill carefully every month, including pages that show the details.

Your phone service cannot be shut off for refusal to pay for unauthorized services. For help, contact your local or state consumer protection agency, state public utilities commission, or the FCC.