Is prank calling the operator a federal offense?

Question

Cause we called them and said "Hypothetically, what could happen if someone prank called the operator?"

And they said it would be a federal offense. Is it true?

Answer 1

i used to be a telephone operator and when the little darlings used to call me and prank. i would call the number right back and talk to the parents. and yes it is federal

Answer 2

do it and find out; tell me when you do.  

Answer 3

Yes, it is a federal offense, and yes you can go to jail for more than a year.  

Answer 4

yes, you should be court marshalled and sent to guantanamo

Answer 5

From a lawyer.  It's not a federal offense unless the call involves federal personnel or a federal matter.  If you call once it's not an offense.  If you call repeatedly it's telephone harassment and it's a state offense.  The telephone company knows where you're calling from due to 911 equipment.  They will send a letter to the homeowner first before they hand it over to the police.