Who Called Me? — The Ultimate Guide 2026
Receiving a call from an unknown number can be unsettling. This complete guide explains how to identify the caller, recognize a scam, and protect your personal data.
Why an unknown number is calling you
Every day, millions of people receive calls from unknown numbers. The reasons vary: a salesperson, a government agency, a friend with a new number, or unfortunately a scam attempt.
In 2026, phone scams have increased by 40% globally according to security agencies. The main technique remains the ping call: the caller lets it ring once to trick you into calling back a premium-rate number.
Free methods to identify a number
1. Google search
Enter the number in quotes (e.g., "+1 555 123 4567"). If the number has been reported, you will find forums, reporting sites, or review pages.
2. Reverse directory
Use Whitepages, Yellow Pages, or similar services. For business landlines, the result is often immediate.
3. Social media
Many people link their phone numbers to WhatsApp, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Searching the number on these platforms can reveal a profile.
4. Clairmo (free)
Clairmo aggregates community reports, public databases, and carrier data to identify a number in seconds.
Paid methods for complete results
To get the full name, address, and carrier of a number, paid services use aggregated databases:
Is it legal?
How reverse lookup works
Reverse lookup combines several data sources:
What to do if you suspect a scam
Never call back a premium-rate number
If you suspect a scam:
- Do not give any personal information
- Do not call back premium-rate or suspicious numbers
- Report the number on Clairmo
- Block the number on your phone
- If you lost money, file a police report
How to block a number on iPhone and Android
iPhone (iOS)
- Open the Phone app
- Tap the info icon next to the number
- Scroll down
- Tap "Block this Caller"
Android
- Open the Phone app
- Long-press the number
- Select "Block/Report spam"
- Confirm the block
Protect yourself effectively
Anti-spam apps
Hiya, Truecaller, and Should I Answer automatically identify suspicious calls.
Do-not-call registry
Register your number with your national do-not-call list to block commercial telemarketing.
Do not answer
If you do not recognize the number, let it ring. An important caller will leave a voicemail.
Frequently asked questions about unknown callers
Enter the number into Clairmo or search it on Google, Yellow Pages, or social media. For comprehensive results including name, carrier, and location, use a reverse phone lookup service.
Identify any number now
Clairmo analyzes public records, community reports, and online profiles to reveal who is behind an unknown number.