Sometimes you would pick up your landline phone without thinking twice, even when you did not recognize the number. Nowadays, with caller ID, voicemail, and smartphones, we have become a lot more selective about who to call back. However, unknown calls from unknown numbers can leave people curious or even worried.
Is it a job opportunity, a spam call, or your relative calling from a new number? If they did not leave a voicemail or one that might raise some red flags, you do not have to stay dark. Luckily, there are several options to identify a caller, and all of them cost you nothing without answering the call.
How to identify unknown callers for free
1. Search the Number Online
A simple online search through browsers like Google, Ecosia, DuckDuckGo, and Firefox can provide a result. Type the number into the search bar and check the top results.
2. Use Whitepages (Free Version)
Whitepages offers a free phone lookup tool. Look up the number, and it will tell you whether it is a scam risk, the carrier, and the approximate location. The information is very helpful, but please note that it may not be accurate, as individuals might change their address without updating their phone number.
3. Try NumLookup
NumLookup is another free alternative that can display the name linked with the number and whether this number is known as a scam. However, like Whitepages, the accuracy depends on whether the contact details are updated.
Paid Options
When free tools do not provide what you need, paid services will offer you more detailed reports, especially when the call might relate to work, legal issues, or safety issues.
Whitepages Premium
- $11.99 – One time complete report with owner name, background info, and contact details.
- $5.99/month – 20 lookups/month (basic info)
- $32.99/month – 200 lookups/month with detailed info
NumLookup Premium
- $10/month – 40 lookups with detailed info
- $20/month – 80 monthly lookups
- $50/month (business plan) – 200 lookups designed for business use
Should you use free or paid lookup services?
Many people verify the legitimacy of a phone number by using an online search or a free lookup tool. However, if you receive repeated unknown calls or need more information, premium services can offer peace of mind.
With real-time caller ID apps and reverse phone lookup tools, you now have more control over who is calling you.
