The market for “used” phone numbers is growing rapidly. Mobile carriers often resell SIM cards with numbers that previously belonged to other users. The new owner may suddenly encounter unexpected calls and messages meant for the former subscriber. Some people might be looking for an old acquaintance, others may be chasing a debt – and some offer shady “schemes.” Sometimes, a number has already appeared in online ads or has even been used for illegal activities.
For businesses, the risk is even higher. Many companies buy phone numbers for advertising, customer support, or delivery services. A number with a bad reputation can undermine customer trust and damage the company’s brand. Just one problematic phone number can spoil the entire company’s image.
What could go wrong?
- You inherit someone else’s debts. Calls from banks and collectors could become your daily routine. You’ll have to explain that you’re not the person they’re looking for – more than once.
- You get “spam by default.” Messengers and SMS inboxes will fill up with ads and mass mailings the previous owner subscribed to.
- Your phone number could be tainted. If it was previously used for spam, scams, or posted on shady websites, it may already be blacklisted. Your calls to clients and friends might be blocked or flagged as “spam.”
- Extra risks for businesses. Customers might see a “Possible fraud” tag instead of your brand name.
How NumBuster helps you avoid these problems
NumBuster displays detailed information linked to a phone number. On the phone number page, you can see the overall rating, user feedback, and tags that give a complete picture before activating a new number.
When checking a number, pay special attention to:
- Repeated complaints in user reviews;
- Sudden spikes in activity or sharp rating changes;
- A large number of negative tags or comments within a short period.
Checking a phone number in NumBuster before activation helps you avoid unnecessary trouble. You get a trustworthy phone number – free from other people’s histories, mistakes, and consequences.