Google launched a new feature yesterday or day before that allows you to enter a number on google local which “connects” you to the business you are searching. The thing is, you can pick anyone’s number and connect them to any business, including stuff like the “Sex Addicts Anonymous” or “Kitty’s Adult Emporium” or other embarrassing businesses. After I discovered it yesterday on Vallywag, see here, I pranked Ryan a couple times, had a few laughs then let him in on the joke. I know that’s very juvenile but I could not resist, ha ha end of story. However, soon phones were ringing around the office as everyone got hit.
Here is how it works. If you find a business on Google maps there is now a feature called “Call” (see below):

Once you type in the number your “friend” will receive a call that when they answer it connects to the chosen business. Around here it resulted in people going, “Why you calling me?” “I didn’t call you, you called me? How did you get my number?” etc etc. Some even called their wireless provider to complain as snickers erupted around the office.
Enjoy. I am sure there will be some updates to this feature to slow down this prank.

Update: It was noted on ZDnet this feature could be used to make long distance calls for free. i.e you click to call someone long distance in the directory, google is picking up the tab.