What Is A Collect Call?
A type of phone call in which calling party does not pays the charges but party which is being “called” pays is called a collect call. Most parts of the world have this feature and in emergency situations it is a valuable tool. Different nations have different processes for making a collect call but generally it is achieved by dialing 0 for the operator in case of emergency. Collect call is made by requesting that operator.
The phone rings on the other hand when collect call is made and the
person who is being called is informed that a collect call is made by someone. The party who is calling is put through only when if the called party accepts the call and its charges. As compared to the regular calls, collect calls have more cost especially in case of cross border calls. And before accepting the call the called party can request information about the rates.
Earlier, operators used to route collect calls but now a day’s computers handle all the functions and when someone dials 0, the information may be sent through a computer system. Toll free numbers can also be dialed which facilitate collect calls free of cost. In order to reduce the burden on the called party by using a low-fee service, one should be aware about the different charges linked to these numbers.
But with the advent of mobile phones, the system of collect calls has reduced but still some people use it in case if phone is stolen, or someone doesn’t use cell phones or in regions where mobile service is inefficient. In some cases when cell phones are not readily available or someone’s belongings are stolen, collect calls can be used. Collect calls are also received by embassies from its citizens who are travelling abroad.
Reverse charge call is another name given to this type of call in some parts of the globe. Called party’s phone bill contains the charges for collect call. If there is any third part company handling the process then fees is collected by that company and is passed on to the company who provided the facility to make the call. But one thing should be kept in mind that calling party’s voice should be heard before accepting the call as there are various scams related to collect calls. Identity can be confirmed as the calling party can state his/her name. And for the deaf people, TDD systems can be used to make collect calls.
Category: Technology