PITTSBURGH -- While calling 411 for directory assistance may be easy and convenient, the cost of using the service has been on the rise, leaving many scratching their heads when their phone bill arrives.

“Somebody will ask, ‘Why is my bill so high?’ And when you tell them they have $35 in directory assistance, it's a real wakeup,” said Dan Shaffer of Wireless Solutions.

With looking up phone numbers via the Internet become an increasing trend, phone companies – both wireless and landline – have started charging everyone else as much as $2 for every 411 call.

“Too expensive, and I don't use it unless I really, really have to. I think twice,” said Marybeth Schwartz of Cranberry.

Instead of dialing 411, consider using 1-800-FREE-411, 1-800-GOOG-411 or 1-800-BING-411.

Those who prefer to text on their cell phones can send a message to Google – 466453 on a keypad – by entering the name of the business, city and state.

Within seconds, a reply arrives with a list of numbers.

“I'm big on dumping 411 and telephone books, and it'll be just marvelous for recycling purposes,” said Paige Beal, a marketing expert at Point Park University.

The idea, some predict, may lead to even higher fees for the traditional 411 service.

“It'll probably escalate to a peak and then usage will just drop off and that'll be something for the history books!” said Shaffer.