How to Determine an Unlisted Number

Find phone numbers so you can call friends.

Some people choose to take their number out of the phone book to avoid unexpected calls. If you know additional information about a person, such as full name or address, you may be able to determine an unlisted phone number. Many people keep their phone numbers unlisted to ensure their privacy. If you contact people who keep their phone numbers unlisted without good reason you may encounter irritation and suspicion.

Instructions

1. Ask around. If you want to find the phone number or a casual acquaintance or a friend of a friend, ask people who are likely to have the phone number if they can provide the number for you. Be prepared to take no for an answer. Many people avoid giving out their friends' contact information for fear of irritating them.

2. Call the individual's place of work, if possible. Ask to speak to the individual. Typically, you need a person's full name if they work at a company of more than a dozen people.

3. Search social networking sites such as Facebook and Linked In. Many people use these websites to stay in touch with friends and colleagues. Some people display their phone numbers publicly while others only display them for their friends or do not display them at all.

4. Look up the person's number using a search service. Typically, you must input the person's full name. You may also need their last known address. These services often charge a fee of anywhere from $5 to $200 and may offer additional information such as Social Security Numbers, place of work and driver's license numbers.

Resources

• Unlisted Etcetera: Phone Number Look Up