Tools necessary to prove a prerecorded telephone solicitation or message occurred:

1. A recording device (tape recorder) for the telephone line:
• This should be of the type that is independent of any button "pushes" the call may request. I recommend either one that is in line before the telephone unit or connects between the base unit and handset of your telephone. Set it close to the telephone so starting the record function can be done as the receiver is picked up.
• It is legal to record telephone calls in the State of Texas. Only one party permission is needed.
• I recommend having two recording devices. The second unit can be used to transcribe the call and the other is always ready for the next call. The second unit is also a backup if the other unit fails for any reason.
2. A caller ID device:
• A display type unit that can be easily photographed or the type that print out. Two units are even better.
• A digital camera takes good pictures of caller ID devices and the pictures can be archived electronically.
3. A log book if you don't have a recording device:
• For making notes on the call. You want to write down names and any other information you can get. Write on the right page only. Keep the left page for notes added after the call.
4. If the caller ID is blocked and there is no information in the call that identifies the entity represented by the call - it's time to play detective:
• Leave a code name, not your real name, and a telephone number to call back on. Be creative with the code name. Jan Olafson is a good one that may not be listed in the local phone book.
• Call trace (*57) will help if caller ID is blocked. The telephone company may charge for each successful call trace. SouthWestern Bell charges $8.00. It will take a subpeona to get the information from the telephone company. The telephone company will retain call trace records for two years.
• Call back (*69) has not proven to be very effective. Most telemarketers that block caller ID will have a per line blocking service that will not allow call backs.