How to find an unknown caller

Table of Contents

• 1. *69 Feature Code:
• 2. Third-Party Apps:
• 3. Caller ID Blocking:
• 4. Spoofing:
• Unknown Caller Motivations:
• Handling Unknown Calls:
• Use the *69 code to trace unknown numbers
• Use the *57 code to trace unknown numbers
• Contact Your Service Provider
  • Third-Party Apps or Services
  • Report Scam Calls to the FTC (for US Citizens)
  • Use Phone Settings to Silence Unknown Callers

The text you provided outlines ways to uncover the identity of unknown callers who intentionally hide their phone numbers. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. *69 Feature Code:

• Function: Dialing *69 on your phone reveals the number of the last person who called you.
• Usage: Provides a quick way to identify recent unknown callers.

2. Third-Party Apps:

• Function: Apps allow users to make calls with anonymous or fake numbers.
• Variety: Different apps employ various technologies, such as hiding the caller’s number or displaying virtual or disposable phone numbers.
• Usage: Users can employ these apps to maintain privacy or, in some cases, to engage in activities like telemarketing or scams.

3. Caller ID Blocking:

• Function: Phone service providers offer a feature that enables callers to block their identity from appearing on the recipient’s caller ID.
• Usage: Used by individuals, including regular users valuing privacy, and by telemarketers and scammers to conceal their identity.

4. Spoofing:

• Function: Caller ID spoofing allows the display of fake information on the recipient’s caller ID, including false phone numbers and different area or country codes.
• Usage: Often employed by scammers and telemarketers to deceive recipients about the origin of the call.

Unknown Caller Motivations:

• Scams: Many unknown callers, especially scammers, hide their identities to carry out fraudulent activities, such as tech support scams or advertising.
• Privacy Concerns: While some individuals hide their numbers for privacy reasons, caution is advised due to the prevalence of scams.

Handling Unknown Calls:

• Caution: If you receive a call from an unknown or suspicious number, it’s recommended not to answer immediately.
• Risk Management: Proceed with caution, avoiding the disclosure of personal information until the caller’s identity is verified.

Use the *69 code to trace unknown numbers

Using *69 on your phone can trace an unknown number through the last-call return service. This feature reveals details of the previous caller, including their number, and may display their name and address if listed in a public database. Depending on your phone service provider, *69 may also offer a dial-back option, allowing you to return the call and identify the unknown caller.

To find an unknown caller using the *69 code:

1. Dial *69 on your phone’s keypad.
2. If the service doesn’t activate automatically, press the call button
3. An automated recording provides details about the last number that called you, including any available caller ID information. Follow the instructions provided by the last-call return service if you wish to call them back. While *69 is typically a free service and an effective method to discover an unknown caller’s number at no cost, be cautious as certain phone service providers may charge for last-call return services.

Use the *57 code to trace unknown numbers

If you encounter a menacing, bothersome, or dubious call from an unfamiliar number, dial the *57 code to automatically trace the last incoming call. This action notifies your phone service provider and, if needed, local law enforcement about potential criminal activities.

To trace a no-caller ID number with *57:

1. Dial *57 on your phone’s keypad.
2. Press the call button if the service doesn’t activate automatically.
3. Adhere to the guidance given by the voice recording and be prepared to furnish additional information if required.
4. The trace details, along with a recording of the call, will be forwarded to your service provider. In certain cases, this information may be shared with local law enforcement for additional investigation.
5. While *57 code call tracing is typically not cost-free, the charges may vary based on your service provider. Nonetheless, it remains a prudent step, especially if you suspect that you are a target of scammers or fraudsters.

Contact Your Service Provider

To discover no-caller ID numbers, reach out to your service provider’s customer support. Inquire about their call tracing services, which may reveal anonymous numbers that *69 can’t trace. Understand the associated costs before proceeding with these services.

Third-Party Apps or Services

Explore third-party apps for uncovering unknown numbers through reverse phone lookup methods. Apps like TrapCall, Spokeo, TrueCaller, and BeenVerified scrape information from various sources to identify unknown callers. Each app has unique features, such as call interception, reverse lookup, and crowdsourced directories.

• TrapCall: Intercepts calls, reveals caller identity, and offers additional features like call blocking.
• Spokeo: Conducts reverse lookup, providing details from various sources, excluding numbers hidden by caller ID blocking.
• TrueCaller: Uses a crowdsourced directory to identify unknown callers and block spam or scam numbers.
• BeenVerified: An online background-check service that verifies people and businesses, potentially revealing details about unknown callers.

Report Scam Calls to the FTC (for US Citizens)

If you encounter scam calls, report them to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to aid in investigations and potential prosecutions. Reporting scams helps the FTC understand patterns, trends, and develop strategies to combat future scams. Use the FTC’s fraud report page to provide details about the scam.

Use Phone Settings to Silence Unknown Callers

While there are no built-in tools for revealing no-caller ID on iPhone or Android, you can silence unknown callers through your phone settings. On an iPhone, open Settings, go to Phone, and toggle on “Silence Unknown Callers” to block calls from unidentified numbers.

Silencing unknown callers can help you block spam calls and stop spam text messages. And it can also block legitimate calls from callers who choose to use an unknown number. If you think you’re missing out on important calls, turn this feature off by following the steps above and moving the toggle switch to the off position.