Aggravated about paying for 411 calls that used to free? While waiting for connecting flights this morning, I stumbled onto this nifty money-saver: A consumer service offered in the United States by Jingle Networks called Free 411 via a toll-free number, (800) 373-3411.

This free network works much like directory assistance, with one exception: It's funded by advertising. Callers may hear a 13-second ad for a business in the region they're calling. And, the business or residence being called will hear a message about advertising with Free 411.

Based on a test of three calls by Snopes.com, the service worked as described and callers heard only one ad.

Snopes.com December 3, 2005