Calls, no msg hangs up

When I picked up and said "hello", there was a pause as if a robo dialer was connecting the call. A man's voice came on and asked for me by surname (I am calling for mr/mrs xxxxx). I did not confirm or deny my identity and just said "hello" again. He repeated his request for mr/mrs xxxxx. When I asked who it was, again without confirming or denying my identity, he hung up.

Fast forward to 2014. I knew it was one of 'those calls'. CID California Call. I picked up anyway. Dead air then a hang up. Surprise, surprise. Number blocked now.

By now I recognize this number and just don't answer. I'm convinced it's just a live-number collector who will sell it to other telemarketers (harassers). My carrier has very limited call blocking capability; probably doesn't want to lose these bozos as paying customers, and to heck with us on the receiving end. Guess it's time for a change.

Same experience.  No message, hung up.