>Actually, it might be that if you tell them that you don't want to be called, and they call you again, that is illegal.

That is generally correct, though it seems to vary with state-by-state rules. The problem (in my state), is that there is only a $500 fine in my state for the repeat calls, and you have to prove with recordings each time that they called and you told them not to repeat. And even then, you may have to go to court to get your money.

And worse, perhaps, a telemarketing rep said this would not stop them from repeating the calls, as it is not big money to them, hardly any consumers will go to the trouble of recording calls and going to court like that...