January 6, 1997 -  A fast growing consumer rip-off involves a procedure called slamming, in which long-distance phone service is changed without getting the permission of the consumer or business. This occurs when a telephone service provider, usually a small, high-priced company, informs the local phone company that a consumer has selected it to replace their current long-distance carrier. Assuming the consumer agreed to change, the local carrier switches the long-distance company.