Is Spokeo’s Reverse Phone Number Lookup Reliable?

Spokeo, like many reverse phone number lookup services, relies on a mixture of public records and user-generated data. The accuracy and reliability of these services are inherently dependent on the information they source from various public and private databases. This article will delve into the reliability of Spokeo's reverse phone number results, the sources of the information they use, and how users can limit the dissemination of their personal information.

The Sources of Spokeo's Data

Spokeo, and other reverse phone number lookup services, obtain most of their data from public records. These records include property records, credit bureaus, LexisNexis, and various other sources. By using these public records, Spokeo claims to provide information about a person’s name, address, and other details linked to their phone number.

The reliability of this information can vary widely. Public records can be outdated, incomplete, and sometimes erroneous. This means that the data provided by Spokeo could be up to 10 years old or have questionable accuracy. Moreover, free lookup sites like Whitepages, Intelius, AnyWho, ZabaSearch, BeenVerified, NeighborWho, Ownerly, Radaris, PeopleFinders, SmartBackgroundCheck, TruthFinder, Nuwber, and InstantCheckMate also share their information with each other. This interconnectedness of data sources can lead to even greater discrepancies and inaccuracies.

Limited Accuracy in Mobile Number Lookups

It's important to note that achieving accurate and up-to-date reverse phone number lookups for cell phones is particularly challenging. The information required to create such lookups is not readily available to anyone, making it difficult for even the most reputable services to provide fully accurate results. The goal of these services is to provide a snapshot of a person's current or historical information, but the limitations in the available data mean that these services can only make educated guesses.

Limiting Information Sharing from Credit Bureaus

Individuals looking to control the information that credit bureaus collect and share can take several steps. One such step is to register for the Opt Out Prescreen program. This program will reduce the number of pre-approved credit card offers you receive. However, it's crucial to understand that the program only stops offers that have the program printed in the fine print. If you want to completely stop receiving credit card offers, you should follow the additional steps available. Individuals can also directly contact the credit bureaus and request that they stop sharing their information. To obtain a free annual credit report from each of the major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion, and Innovis), individuals can visit Correcting any incorrect information on these reports is another important step. Call the dispute number on each report to identify the creditor reporting the incorrect information and then contact the creditor to update or remove the incorrect information. This process can help reduce unwanted phone calls and emails.

Stopping Information Sharing from LexisNexis

To control information shared by LexisNexis, individuals can use their marketing opt-out link. By searching "LexisNexis opt out" on Google, users can find the Privacy Opt Out page. This page provides instructions to remove personal information from online websites.

Removing Personal Information from Online Websites

For a comprehensive guide on how to remove personal information from a multitude of online websites, individuals can refer to the Quora space named “Google cleanse.” This space offers tips and resources to help users clean up their online presence and limit the sharing of their personal information.

Understanding the sources of data and the methods to control information sharing is essential in navigating the landscape of reverse phone number lookups. While services like Spokeo can provide valuable information, it is important to be aware of their limitations and to take proactive steps to protect one's personal information.