In today’s world where most people are dependent on their cellular phones, it’s important to always keep the privacy and the safety of our mobile numbers in check. However, that isn’t always the case because more often than not, we receive calls from numbers that we don’t even know. While you can always ignore the call, it always helps to be aware whether the phone call that you’re getting is a legit call or spam. That’s where a reverse phone lookup comes in handy.
In this article, we’ll be giving you a rundown of some of the best reverse phone lookup services that you can use to track down that private number.
Inside This Article
What Is Reverse Phone Lookup?
Let’s say that you’re browsing through your mobile phone and you happen to come across a number that you didn’t know you had or you unexpectedly receive a call from a strange number. Similar to a reverse image search, using a reverse phone lookup service eliminates the trouble of having to contact the number yourself to find out who it belongs to.
Put simply, a reverse phone lookup allows users to know the identity behind phone numbers. This is different from a mobile number tracker app, which only identifies the location of an unknown number and not the owner per se. It comes in handy if you receive a call from a strange number during a busy day and you want to know who the caller is.
By performing a reverse phone lookup, you’ll be able to identify whether reaching out to that number is worth doing or not. In this era where telemarketers and spammers have access to phone numbers, it’s essential to be familiar with services like this so that you don’t have to go through the trouble of reaching out to the caller only to find out that it’s spam.
Also read: Best Call Blocker Apps for Android and iOS
Best Reverse Phone Lookup Services to Use
For those who are contemplating using reverse phone lookup services but don’t know where to start, worry not because we’ve compiled ten of the best services that you can use to track down that phone number. A friendly note though, most of these services might require you some cash.
1.) Intelius
Founded in 2003, Intelius aims to keep users informed by offering reliable search services. Their reverse phone lookup provides users with a report that includes the owner’s name, address, history, and even the phone type they are using when such information is available. All you have to do is head to their website and key-in the number that you want to find. From there, you’ll be able to perform secure searches that deliver quick results.
Its claim is that not only will you be able to perform a reverse phone lookup, but you’ll also be able to do several other searches. This includes background checks, reverse address lookup, people search, and even public records among others.
2.) National Cellular Directory
National Cellular Directory specializes in cell phone numbers, and its white pages reverse phone lookup provides its users with a report that includes a breadth of information about a phone number. They store first name, middle name, last name, current and past addresses, relatives, email addresses, social media profiles, and other phone numbers that belong to the owner of the phone number that was searched. Their reverse phone lookup search is a safe and confidential option for finding out who a phone number belongs to. Reverse phone search works for landlines, unlisted & non-published numbers, and cell phone lookups. They also provide search-by-name reports and a reverse address search. National Cellular Directory prides itself in its best-in-class customer service and easy-to-use website.
3.) ZLOOKUP
ZLOOKUP is a service that seeks to find the true owner of any phone number. They claim to provide a quick and hassle-free reverse phone lookup solution. Contrary to other services, ZLOOKUP can only help you identify the name of the anonymous number’s owner and nothing more. It’s not one that you should use if you’re looking to perform a complete background check on a person using their phone number. On the bright side, you’ll be able to search for toll-free phone numbers on the website. It’s something that makes ZLOOKUP unique among its competitors who don’t support such numbers.
The reason why ZLOOKUP is a popular site is that it’s free. That’s right, while most reverse phone lookup services are pay-to-search, ZLOOKUP delivers quick and reliable results for free.
4.) CocoFinder
CocoFinder is an easy-to-use reverse phone lookup service where all you have to do is to provide the website with the number and you’ll be able to identify the identity of the caller. Further, you can also do a number of things such as address lookups, people search, and background checks on the website.
The best part about using CocoFinder is that its services are free so you don’t have to worry about spending a single dime on being able to use their services.
5.) True Caller
True Caller is a popular free number search engine. If you have the True Caller app installed on your phone, you’ll receive a notification with the name and country of the caller as soon as you receive a call from an anonymous number. It’s that easy! Additionally, you can even use it to search for numbers that might have previously called you to find out who they are and what country they come from. True Caller provides users with results from its collection of phone numbers from across the world. It eliminates the worry of receiving calls from overseas and not knowing whether it’s safe to accept them or not.
True Caller is available on the web and also comes as an app for those who would rather have it readily available on their phones without having to access a mobile browser. Their app is available for both Android and iOS users.
6.) TruthFinder
If you happen to come across a call from a private number, this website is your best bet at finding out who the number belongs to. TruthFinder comes in handy if you want to find out whether the caller is an individual or a business as their numbers are most likely to be private. You’ll also be able to access details such as employment details and background reports among others.
The downside of it all is that TruthFinder, like the majority of reverse phone lookup services, requires you to pay a fee to access the details. That said, you might want to opt for a free service or a different paid service instead if you’re not looking to access a plethora of information.
7.) AnyWho
AnyWho helps users find people, places, and businesses with the use of Yellow Pages. It’s a reverse phone lookup service that provides quick and free results. All you will need to be able to perform a search on their website is the Area Code + Phone Number that you’re trying to find. Their records are updated weekly so you’ll be able to access reliable results. That said, you’ll only be able to find the name and the location of the owner which is great if you’re not looking to access information that’s too specific.
AnyWho can also help you look for a person or a certain address. The service also allows you to find information by area code where you’ll be able to see the cities, counties, state, and time zone that’s associated with the area code that you have.
8.) Instant Checkmate
Instant Checkmate is an all-in-one website search website where you can run public record searches. Their reverse phone lookup allows you to remain anonymous while you do your searches. Additionally, you’ll also be able to run searches for numbers as many times as you want and the website will deliver relevant information such as the owner’s name, address, location, and email when available. The site also offers more information such as their social profiles for a small fee which is not necessary if you’re just looking to find out who called you.
Apart from their reverse phone lookup service, Instant Checkmate also offers other search services such as background checks, criminal records, and more.
9.) Whitepages
Whitepages is a trusted and popular site that offers reverse phone lookup services. The website has been in service since 1997 and delivers results that are free of charge. By providing the website with the complete phone number that you want to search for, you’ll be able to find the person’s name and address in just a few minutes. Alternatively, you can also perform a standard person search and even a reverse address search.
Whitepages is a great service to use especially for businesses and landlords who want to get in touch with people, confirm identities, and have a grasp of their backgrounds. Whitepages is easily accessible through their website or through their app that’s available for Android and iOS.
10.) PeopleFinder
PeopleFinder, like most of the items in this list, is a web-based reverse phone lookup service that allows users to check caller details from publicly registered numbers. They’ve worked to provide users with a person’s name, address, and even their email address if publicly available. At present, their services are only available for users in the United States.
PeopleFinder has been around since 1998 and provides users with simple solutions to finding people and getting in touch with them if necessary. You can use the service for free without having to register for an account. However, you’ll be able to access more features once you register an account with them.
11.) Sync.Me
If you’re looking for an all-in-one reverse search engine, Sync.Me is a great option to consider. It enables you to identify an unknown caller’s name, photo, and even social profile. It’s a great service to use if you’re looking for one that provides you with real-time results and real-time spam call detection.
With this service, you’ll be able to access the public details of the caller so you’ll be able to identify if it’s spam or not. Sync.Me is readily available on the web. You can also opt to download their Android and iOS app for real-time solutions.
Reasons to Use Reverse Lookup Services
There are many reasons why users often opt to use reverse phone lookup services. While it all boils down to individual interests, it’s without a doubt that there are common reasons why many users end up using reverse phone services.
To give you an idea of the common reasons why people often use reverse searches or if you’re looking for a way to justify why you need to perform a search, you may refer to the rundown below.
A.) Sales Calls
Telemarketers often use real or private-looking numbers to “trick” users into picking up their phones. While there’s nothing wrong with that, these calls happen at random times of the day and while you can opt to block them, there’s no guarantee that it will work because they might just end up using a different number.
Using reverse phone lookup services allows you to keep an eye on those who are calling you. It eliminates the need for you to immediately pick-up a call from an unknown number as you can always just search for its owner afterward.
B.) Protect Your Loved Ones
Phone numbers can be easily accessed through public records or other searches. As such, you might find yourself or your loved ones receiving random calls or even prank calls. With a reverse search, you can easily help to protect your loved ones from such calls to put a stop to it. Performing a reverse phone lookup will be able to help you identify persons that may potentially cause harm to you or your loved ones.
C.) Perform Background Searches
Most reverse phone lookup services will also offer background searches and other public record searches. By using a phone number, you can easily find records of a person such as their criminal records, addresses, and even their social media accounts when available.
However, do note that most websites only perform background checks for a fee and they usually don’t come for free.
Pros and Cons of Reverse Phone Lookup Services
Performing reverse phone lookups may look appealing. However, remember that like other services, there is a lot to consider before actually availing of a service to track a phone.
Here are a couple of pros and cons that you might want to consider before opting to use a reverse phone lookup service.
PROS
- Most services are free of charge.
- Fast and reliable results.
- Helps put an end to security issues and prank calls.
- Can be used as a basis to identify a variety of other details such as addresses, public records, etc.
CONS
- Privacy risks.
- Not all free services offer private phone tracing.
- You will have to pay a small fee to access other information.
- Not all searches are accurate.
Wrap-Up
In all, using reverse phone lookup services isn’t at all bad. It helps people to be aware of how their information can easily be spread and hopefully help them to be more careful when sharing their information through the internet or personal communication. Services such as reverse phone lookups also help users to protect themselves and their families from potential threats. Just remember to use services like this sparingly as it is something that requires responsibility.
