what the heck is going on with Kifaru?

[String&stick]

Sounds like the OP was more curious than whiny.

I don't know about kifaru but something that happens at my work fairly often is the overnight machine gets left on in the morning.

This machine let's the phone ring twice and then sends it to a voicemail very similar to what the OP describes, you can put in an extension # or just leave your message. . . Could have been the case here.

 

[revcwood]

I have had 3 customer service calls refining an order since July 15 (including today) and have not had this experience. Live person every time, super helpful, even helped me correct a mistake I made with an exchange.

 

[WRM]

It's my new fave. Had to use it.