Can VoIP Numbers Be Traced?

Yes, a VoIP number can be traced, but it is more complicated than tracking traditional phone numbers. As mentioned above, calls from a virtual phone number rely on the internet, and the caller’s details are not tied to a physical telephone line.

So, tracing VoIP numbers usually involves service providers checking IP addresses, call logs, and registration details. However, users can mask or hide this data with VPNs, disposable emails, or caller ID spoofing, which makes the process complex.

Fixed VoIP Numbers

Fixed VoIP numbers are registered to a specific physical address, such as a home or office, which makes them similar to traditional landline numbers. Service providers often require accurate user details, like billing addresses, before issuing them.

They also usually come with a local area code tied to the registered location. Because of this verified setup, getting information about fixed VoIP numbers is relatively straightforward, especially when linked to customer records. As a result, they are considered more trustworthy and are often preferred by banks, businesses, and even emergency services.
 

Non-Fixed VoIP Numbers

Non-fixed VoIP numbers are not tied to any particular location, which makes them work more like mobile or disposable numbers. In fact, you can purchase one with only an email address or a payment card, without needing to provide a real physical address. They also allow you to choose any area code you want, even from a different city or country.

Since they can be used from any internet-connected device, they offer flexibility and add layers of anonymity. However, because they lack verified customer information, tracing or verifying non-fixed VoIP numbers is much more difficult. This is why they are commonly used by freelancers, travelers, or anyone who needs a quick and private setup.

Mostly, people trace internet-based phone numbers to protect themselves from scams and fraud, since people can hide their identity using such numbers. In addition, tracing is used to support legal investigations and to verify whether important communications are genuine or from a number flagged as spam-likely.

• Security and Fraud Prevention: Many scammers or telemarketers hide their details by exploiting features of VoIP numbers like caller ID spoofing. So, tracing such a number helps identify and expose those who attempt phishing, vishing, or impersonation.
• Legal and Investigative Purposes: Law enforcement traces VoIP calls to gather evidence in cases of stalking, trafficking, harassment, or other criminal activities. As a result, it helps in solving cybercrimes and supporting legal proceedings.
• Verification of Official Communications: One of the reasons to trace VoIP numbers for businesses is to authenticate calls from legitimate stakeholders. Plus, it helps to prevent bogus or spam calls while ensuring important communications are not missed.
• Threat Detection and Network Security: IT security teams trace such numbers to detect unauthorized access or cyberattacks targeting their networks. This way, they can take timely corrective actions to safeguard sensitive information.

To trace a VoIP number, you can use reverse phone lookup, cross-referencing with social media, or use third-party apps. Plus, you can also contact your service provider, and in case of a serious situation, you can hire third-party tracing services or contact law enforcement.

The simplest approach is often overlooked. When you receive a digital number call from an unknown number, directly pick up the call and ask the caller to identify themselves. Or, in case of a missed call, dial back the number or use the *69 code to dial the number of the last incoming call.

Furthermore, asking directly can help you assess the caller's intentions. If someone refuses to identify themselves or becomes defensive, this may indicate suspicious activity requiring further investigation.

Limitations:

• The caller may lie to you about their information.
• *69 code is based on the carrier, so it may not work for all carriers.

Reverse phone lookup services offer one of the most accessible methods for tracing VoIP numbers. In particular, these platforms search extensive databases to match phone numbers with owner information. Some of the popular services include Truecaller, Whitepages, and Spokeo.

To use this method, simply enter the cloud-based number into the search tool of the above-mentioned apps. The service will then provide available information such as the caller's name, location, and sometimes address. Although some services offer free basic searches, detailed reports typically require fees.

Limitations:

• VoIP numbers may not appear in these databases, as they are easy to obtain and dispose of.
• Requires payment for detailed information from $6 to $200 monthly.

Cross-referencing with social media platforms is another method for VoIP number tracing. This is because most people link phone numbers to their Facebook, Instagram, and other social networks.

So, to find a social media account by phone number, start by searching the digital number directly on social platforms to get accounts associated with the number.

In addition, you can use the "Forgot Password" feature on social media platforms by entering the VoIP phone number that you got a call from. This method is effective as many platforms display associated usernames or profile pictures during account recovery processes.

Additionally, contact syncing features may also help identify VoIP numbers. You can simply save the unknown number to your contacts, then sync with social media apps. As a result, platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp can suggest profiles based on phone numbers you synced.

Limitations:

• Effective only if the number is used for creating online accounts.
• Privacy settings may also prevent the discovery of associated profiles.

You can also use a third-party app or software to trace a VoIP number, as specialized tools provide more enhanced identification capabilities. In fact, these tools use advanced databases and analysis techniques to identify cloud-based number owners. However, their capabilities and legality vary significantly.

i. Caller ID Apps

These Caller ID or call screening applications are the most accessible and legal option for general users. In particular, these apps function by maintaining crowdsourced databases where users contribute information about incoming calls. If a digital number has been previously reported and identified by another user, the app may display that name.

Limitations:

• A new or rarely used VoIP number might not be in the database.
• Results are based on user-submitted data, which can be inaccurate or outdated.

ii. Business Lookup APIs

These IP-based number lookups are legitimate services designed for businesses to validate numbers and check their type. So, this method is normally used to determine the carrier associated with a number and get spam risk scoring. Some of the options include Twilio Lookup API, Numverify, and Telnyx Number Lookup.

Limitations:

• They provide carrier and number-type information, not personal details like a caller's name or address.
• Access is typically sold as a B2B service, not to individual consumers.

iii. Technical Analysis Tools

 Packet analyzer software like Wireshark can intercept and analyze network traffic. Moreover, these tools can also inspect unencrypted VoIP calls to find technical data like source IP addresses.

Particularly, these tools examine SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) signaling information and RTP (Real-time Transport Protocol) streams to identify source IP addresses and routing details.

Further, it should only be performed by network administrators on their own networks or by law enforcement with proper authorization. So, it is not a viable or legal method for the public to trace a VoIP call.

Limitations:

• This method is technically complex and has major legal and practical barriers.
• Most modern VoIP calls are encrypted, making the data unreadable.
• Intercepting communications that you are not part of is illegal in most jurisdictions.

Contacting the VoIP service provider represents one of the most direct approaches to tracing cloud-based calls. As service providers maintain detailed call logs and routing information, they can identify and get information about the internet-based phone number.

When contacting the provider, prepare essential information, including the date and time of the call, the caller's number, and any additional call details. As a result, providers can review their logs to identify the source IP address and routing path used for the call.

Limitations:

• Privacy laws may limit information sharing.
• Tracing becomes difficult if callers use VPNs or multiple IP addresses.
• VoIP providers may also have policies restricting information disclosure.

Professional VoIP tracing services offer specialized expertise and advanced tools for number identification.

In particular, these services employ advanced techniques like network forensics, metadata analysis, and comprehensive database searches.

Additionally, professional services can access multiple data sources simultaneously, increasing the likelihood of successful identification. Further, they often maintain relationships with various service providers and can navigate legal requirements more effectively.

Limitations:

• Typically charge fees based on the complexity of the trace.
• Effectiveness depends on the specific circumstances of each case.

If any of the above-mentioned methods fail to acquire the owner’s information of the VoIP number, you can notify law enforcement. This is because they possess legal authority and specialized tools for VoIP number tracing that surpass civilian capabilities. In fact, police can request warrants or court orders to obtain detailed information from service providers.

Furthermore, authorities have access to advanced network monitoring tools and can coordinate with multiple jurisdictions for comprehensive investigations. Moreover, they can also request IP detail records (IPDR) from internet service providers to trace call origins.

Additionally, agencies can use legal processes unavailable to civilians, such as real-time call monitoring with proper warrants. They can also coordinate with federal agencies like the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) for cases involving telecommunications violations.

But, before contacting the police, document all relevant information, including call times, content, and any threatening messages. It is necessary since law enforcement investigates only cases involving clear criminal activity.

Limitations:

• Law enforcement usually intervenes only in cases involving clear criminal activity.
• Obtaining warrants or court orders can take time and slow investigations.
• Cross-border VoIP calls may complicate tracing and require international cooperation.

Tracing a VoIP phone number can be challenging, especially if you are an average person with no knowledge of networks. Not only do they lack physical address links, but they can also be enabled for anonymous calls.

To trace a VoIP number, you may need access to originating IP addresses, registered caller ID, and network logs. This information is not readily available for access, making it hard to trace VoIP calls. One can obtain the necessary information through cooperation with VoIP providers, ISPs, network administrators, and law enforcement agencies.

VoIP number providers prioritize user privacy to protect user information. In some countries, they limit access to call records and user details. Only with legal authority can one trace VoIP numbers without running into trouble with the police.

Tracing VoIP numbers will be difficult without knowledge of the inner workings of cellular systems. Most police do not have the necessary expertise to trace calls and instead depend upon surveillance teams. If they do not have adequate knowledge, the police may not follow up with your request or complaint. This is unfortunate as only they have the right to issue warrants and ask VoIP providers to help with legal requests.

Callers remain anonymous due to the extensive VoIP security measures from packet switching to data encryption. Packet switching is used to transfer data in a fast and efficient manner by dividing data. As the small data packets move independently through the network and may not travel through the same path, it is challenging to trace the call back to the owner, but not impossible.

In summary, tracing a VoIP number is possible, yet rarely straightforward. While fixed VoIP numbers can often be identified through providers, non-fixed ones bring far greater anonymity. Methods like reverse lookups, caller ID apps, and contacting providers may help, but advanced cases usually demand professional tracing services or even law enforcement.

So, if you receive a suspicious call from a cloud-based phone number, do not ignore it. Instead, take proactive steps to protect your personal and business security. Whether through reverse lookups, third-party tracing tools, or reporting to authorities, acting quickly can prevent scams and protect sensitive information.

Stay alert, act fast, and protect yourself from virtual phone number scams.