BSN Stock Photo

One of the most common questions people ask all over the Internet is whether or not a free reverse cell phone directory actually exists out there somewhere. After all, there are plenty of free reverse lookup sites for land line numbers. What is the difference?

Well, the difference is the classification of the information. Your residential phone number is considered public domain information and has been for decades.

That's why no one has to ask your permission to publish your number in the telephone book. In fact, many times you actually have to pay a fee to keep your name OUT of those phone books (i.e., to get it unlisted or non-published).

Mobile phone numbers are generally more private, since you're charged for every call you receive, including telemarketers you don't want to talk to (although it's illegal for them to call your cell phone without permission!). That's why cell phone numbers are typically harder to trace.

A more effective way to do a search by cell phone number is through a specialized private cell phone directory like Reverse Phone Detective. Using this service, you'll be able to find information on almost any number you enter.

Reverse Phone Detective keeps its databases as up-to-date as possible, so you run little risk of finding invalid or outdated information. If you do, the other investigative tools available free to registered members will help you continue your search.

You'll also get advanced tools like free search assistance, access to expanded people search database records, even family member information. All you need to do is enter the area code and seven digit number, and you'll get information like the number owner's name and address - which will help you stop prank calls, catch a cheating spouse and more.