- Doing a reverse search on a phone number is very easy to do, and using a phone number looking to trace a call takes literally a matter of seconds.  There are a number of reasons why you would need to find a person, their address, or even any other background records that may presently be made available. This technology which is the white pages directory has been used for decades by law enforcement and emergency crews, and has helped protect and save many lives. Now similar reverse cell phone data bases are made public to help you get answers quick. * Find a long lost friend * Reveal a prankster * Check a number with no name written on a piece of paper * Learn about who your kids are hanging out with * Discover if your partner is cheating on you