While it’s easy to ignore, block, or report a suspicious call, there may be times when you want to identify the caller. In this article, cybersecurity expert Tashreef Shareef guides you on how to find out who’s on the other end of that line using third-party services and the internet.
1. Internet Search Engines
A simple way to trace and block spam calls is to search for the unknown number on search engines like Google. Several websites compile lists of scam and spam numbers reported by individuals through community pages.
When you enter a phone number, Google scours the web for matches, particularly on the aforementioned data-hosting websites. It will also display any linked social media or user profiles (if they’re public).
2. Reverse Phone Lookup Websites
These websites often have access to larger databases than regular search engines. They source data from public archives, search engines, white and yellow pages services, and social media databases.
However, some paid reverse phone lookup services may even delve into the dark web and business partner records. This is why free services don’t always yield the desired results.
When using such a service, pay attention to the data they request. If they ask for your phone number, name, and other details, your information may also be mined when others use the service to look up your number.
Apps like TrueCaller can help identify unknown callers by name or location. While this may be a double-edged sword, it makes it easier to screen calls.
The app also features spam reporting and automatic call/spam message blocking.
If it’s just a marketing or spam call, you can block the number by adding it to your block list or contacting your telecom provider.
4. Contact Your Network Provider
You can try contacting your network provider to seek caller details, but this is often a complex process due to legal constraints regarding user privacy. They are more likely to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
Which Numbers Should You Be Wary Of?
With the rise of scam and nuisance calls, network providers caution customers to be vigilant when receiving calls from unknown international sources, especially those preceded by a plus sign (+) or 00.
If the following digits aren’t 84 (Vietnam’s country code) but another set of numbers like Burkina Faso (+226) or Guinea (+240), be on guard.
Recently, some network providers have flagged several +028 numbers as potential scams: 02899964439, 2856786501, 02899964438, 02899964437, 02873034653, 02899950012, 02899964448, 02822000266, 0287108690, 02899950015, 02899958588, 02871099082, and 02899996142.