Dear Abby: Over the past month, I have accidentally dialed a couple of wrong numbers. Because no one answered, I didn’t think it was necessary to leave a message.

Abby, both times the recipient of the wrong number called me to find out why I had called. The first time it was an irate mother demanding to know why I was calling her kid’s cellphone. She threatened to call the police if I ever called again. The second individual also angrily demanded to know why I was calling. These folks could not accept the fact that I had simply misdialed.

I feel their reactions were unwarranted. Would you agree? What is the best way to respond if it happens again?