Making a phone call might mean telling the world about you; number identification service is a dream for marketers but a threat to privacy; name, home, pay, car model; party line

Article Abstract:

Companies such as J.C. Penney are using automatic telephone number identification systems that automatically identify the caller with detailed account information on a service representative's computer screen. American Telephone and Telegraph, MCI Communications and US Sprint Communications are offering the service that identifies callers before anyone even answers the phone. Businesses claim that phone bills are cut, and customers are served more efficiently. But critics point out that individual rights to privacy are being invaded, and that callers have no way to preserve their anonymity. Underlying those concerns, critics ask: Do public utilities have the right to release phone numbers, especially unlisted ones, to individuals or institutions willing to buy the information?

Purchasing, Privacy, Telecommunications systems, Information services, Consumer behavior, Automation, J.C. Penney Corporation Inc., Telecommunication systems, Call accounting systems, Telephone Answering Devices, Rights

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Nynex says unit is target of probe on building pacts

Article Abstract:

Nynex Corp's New York Telephone unit is the target of an investigation into bribery and bid-rigging for building maintenance operations. New York state regulators says that between 50 and 80 present and former employees are under investigation. Nynex reports that at least 15 employees have already left the company: two were fired and 13 resigned or retired. The investigation has already uncovered a contract scheme where a $6 million contract was awarded in exchange for kickbacks totaling $600,000. The Nynex telephone unit has recently requested an $832 million rate increase from the New York state Public Service Commission, but a panel of three administrative law judges recommends only $23.6 million.

Investigations, Contracts, Bribery, NYNEX Corp., NYN, Investigation

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Phone firms are becoming poles apart; Bells, in varying degrees, diverge and diversify

Article Abstract:

Since the breakup of AT and T in 1984, the seven Bell Regional Holding Companies have diversified and taken on their own separate personalities. Although the companies are barred by the breakup decree from entry into certain markets such as manufacturing telecommunications equipment and providing long distance service, they have found many more or less successful ways of diversifying. The question is should they be diversifying at all? Some analysts say no, citing that the companies often know little about the markets they are entering, and almost none of the companies have made money at it. The plans and diversification paths of the seven companies are discussed.

Telecommunications industry, Regional Bell Operating Companies, Industry Analysis, Market Analysis, Diversification, Bell Regional Holding Companies

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