So what is a frustrated consumer to do - short of punching in numbers at random in hopes of hearing a familiar voice?

As frustrated consumers become more technically adept, said Ms. O'Connor, the Cal State professor, they may create Web sites that look credible but provide misinformation.

"As a very frustrated consumer, I will be driven straight to the search engines."

Both companies have been sued by frustrated consumers and subscribers, as they demand change in text charges.

And many a frustrated consumer has learned to pretend to be one of the few remaining telephone customers in possession of a rotary-dial phone.

When frustrated consumers take their grievances to court, interesting things can happen.

The underlying strategy is to enlist popular support for reviving the economy by giving frustrated consumers more to buy.

The setup service has reduced the number of phone calls from angry or frustrated consumers with problems while increasing the number of add-on products Gateway has sold.

You Don't Tug on the Avenger's Cape Greetings, oh frustrated and bone-weary consumer!

The Government is encountering frustrated consumers wherever it turns.