INVESTIGATIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the source of your data?
TARGUSinfo is not a traditional single-source supplier, as are White Pages compilers and Directory Assistance providers. These databases have inherent weaknesses in accuracy, completeness and coverage.
We have relationships with over 90 proprietary sources, including a unique membership in the US Telecommunications Network (USTN).
The USTN is the ultimate platform for up-to-date information on all phone numbers, including nonpublic and wireless numbers. By becoming a trusted member of the USTN, TARGUSinfo has built a foundation for data that is exceptionally precise, relevant and actionable.
How often is your database updated?
Data for TARGUSinfo solutions is updated 10 times per day. Over the course of every month, our network is refreshed by more than 90 proprietary data sources.
What different types of information can you deliver in addition to name address and phone number?
We have literally hundreds of different data elements in our repository. Much of this data provides insight on the telephone number itself, such as: Is it valid? Is it in service? How long has it been in service? Who is the carrier of the telephone? Is it wireless or landline? We also have extended attributes about each phone, name and address, such as: Is it business or residential? What are various demographics associated with this individual? What is the likelihood of this individual to make certain purchases from you? How do they score on a profitability index for your company?
Can you identify if a number has been ported?
Yes, we can provide an indicator that a phone number has been ported.
Do you have access to wireless, VoIP and Direct Inward Dial (DID) data?
Yes, we have access to data on wireless, VoIP and DID phone numbers where available and our coverage leads the industry.
How quickly can I get a single query returned?
Query-response speed varies with the type of connection our customers select. Responses to a single query are in sub-second time.
Can I submit batches of records online?
Yes, iTACT can accept multiple records in the same query through a simple attachment.
How quickly can I get the results of a batch returned?
Depending on the size of the file, TARGUSinfo can return the data within minutes of submission.
What are the technical requirements for using iTACT?
Since you can access iTACT through a Web-based interface, all that's required is a computer with an Internet connection.
For what types of agencies is iTACT designed?
The solution provides quick and easy display of data for both law enforcement agencies and investigative operations. Even the largest law enforcement agencies have found that iTACT fits the scale and time sensitivity of their data needs.
How does this solution save me time on my investigations or administrative subpoena process?
With iTACT, you can instantly identify the phone carrier even if the number has been ported. iTACT eliminates the guesswork, and provides access to name, address, phone and carrier data online and in real time.
Can you only provide data when it starts with a telephone number?
No, we have lots of applications that begin with a name and address — or a name, address and phone number — where we verify that what you have is valid and confirm that the name, address and phone number belong together. Additionally, if the information you provide looks incorrect, then we can append the correct information to it.
Why is the TARGUSinfo solution more effective than using free public data sources?
Publicly available data, such as White Pages or Directory Assistance information, has several shortcomings, including:
- Supplying no data on mobile and other nonpublic phone numbers
- Providing far fewer addresses
- Carrying a high probability of having out-of-date phone data; White Pages listings are only updated annually
TARGUSinfo uses White Pages and Directory Assistance sources – along with more than 90 other sources, many of them proprietary. Using data unavailable from any other source, we provide the most current and complete contact information available.
