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Ccube Enables Click-to-Call for Craigslist Users
 TMCnet Contributing Editor
In this new generation of mass electronic communications and increased threats of stolen identity, consumers are easily drawn to offerings that enable them to take advantage of services that promote communication while protecting identities. When the individual is completely protected in a conversation, the call can be more relaxed and productive.
Ccube is making such communications possible for users of Craigslist. The company announced today that its over-the-phone social network lets Craigslist users talk to anyone instantly, while remaining completely anonymous. Users of Craigslist only need to include their Ccube username or “Call me on the Ccube” buttons to speak directly with potential buyers or romantic partners without revealing their real phone numbers.
"Craigslist is a 'community catalyst' that contributes real value to our community," said Mahesh Lalwani, CEO of Ccube, in a Tuesday statement. "At Ccube, we want to strengthen this bond by making it even easier for Craigslist users to get connected. Our new click-to-call feature and 'Call me on Ccube' buttons are designed to help create a searchable, single degree of separation for Craigslist users based on their common needs and interests - from selling products and services to finding a date."
Ccube’s new service enables those using Craigslist to quickly connect with and screen potential providers with the click of a button. Users are able to promote their own “Call me on Ccube” button or personal URL right on their Craigslist post or profile. As a result, people are able to effortlessly and instantaneously contact another individual with job offers without ever typing an e-mail or risking sending their personal contact information.
Craigslist is used by many to introduce themselves to a new community or find romance in the personals section. It can difficult for a person in such situations to feel comfortable sharing phone number or e-mail address information with someone they have not met. As Ccube users exchange usernames instead of personal contact information, Ccube offers a safe and private way to locate others with similar hobbies or search for a soul mate.
Ccube also allows the individual to listen to brief recorded greetings of matching members as part of the connection process. By hearing their voice greeting first, a user can get a better feeling about a person before deciding to make contact.
Ccube enables new members to create a user account, record a voice profile and upload a photo. The individual can then enter a combination of preferences and search criteria to help identify members with similar interests. Once a member has found another and is ready to talk, Ccube connects the call, ensuring that members never see each other’s phone numbers.
While it’s great that Ccube will offer such protection in communications, making it easier for individuals to get to know one another, but is this perhaps another step in the direction of disconnect that we have as a culture? While technology is supposed to keep us more connected, in effect, it is pushing us further apart. While this can be a good thing where physical safety and identity protection are involved, but who wants to live in a box?
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