Overriding my answer machine?

Question

Lately, I get a telemarket call that is able to begin recording to my machine even before my answer announcement is finished- this is WAY before the beep-signal.

I'm not sure if this is a single source, or if more than one entity is using this annoyance.

How is this possible, and is there a solution to the problem?

Answer 1

Some answering machines allow you to press "*" or another character and skip the announcement.  Check your manual to see if that's true.  

Second, sign up for the Do Not Call list.  It sure cuts down on their calls.

Answer 2

Sometimes, when the telemarketers call, the message starts playing as soon as the line opens. What you get then is half a message. So when the message plays, you will hear the tail end of what should have been a message.  its a recording, actually.