Does every company want to be on a top list? Not really. Here's one they certainly will shun -- Top 15 Most Hated Companies in the U.S. Compiled by 24/7 Wall St., the list is based on six criteria: employee opinions, total return to shareholders, consumer polls and indices, brand valuations, views of taxpayers and Congress and negative press coverage.

The following is Americans'top 15 most hated companies in 2010, in no particular order.

   DirecTV

DirecTV (NYSE: DTV) scores a weak 68 on the American Customer Satisfaction Index, down 4.2% from the company's score last year. The direct broadcast satellite company draws complaints for a number of reasons. It automatically extends customers' contracts for 24 months when new equipment is added. Customers often receive unexpected fees, such as a $480 cancellation fee. There has been a great deal of dissatisfaction over aggressive telemarketing practices. Recently the company reached a settlement with all 50 states over allegations that it misled consumers about pricing and policies.

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