We get regular inquiries from businesses chasing after delinquent debtors who went away, and never returned. Sometimes we take on skip tracing projects and solve them others we turn to Tracers.com. At other times a client acts on a hint we give, and finds the third party themselves.
1. Utilize Search Engines
Start with search engines by entering the individual’s first and last name along with a unique identifier, such as their phone number or email address. Avoid overloading the search string—keep it concise and specific.
2. Explore Social Media
Social media platforms are valuable tools, especially if the person has a public profile with sufficient details. Combine their first and last name with information like their phone number, birthdate, school, or employer to narrow your search.
3. Check Electoral Records
Publicly available electoral records can confirm the accuracy of details like full names and addresses. While they aren’t search engines, they are useful for validating information you may already have.
4. Use the Australian Business Network
This government-maintained resource allows basic and advanced searches using ABNs, ACNs, or personal names. In some cases, you may uncover additional details, such as a postcode or phone number.
5. Search the White and Yellow Pages
Although less commonly used today, the White Pages can provide phone numbers if you know the person’s full name, city, and suburb. The Yellow Pages might yield results if you have details about their employer.
6. Consider Reverse Phone Lookup Services
Websites offering reverse phone lookups may provide a name, service provider, and even a street address for a given phone number. However, the data might be outdated, so use this method cautiously.
Limitations When Dealing with Serial Offenders
While these tools can be effective for tracing individuals who may have disappeared due to specific circumstances, they are less useful for serial delinquents who frequently default on payments. Such individuals often create false identities and change them regularly. In these cases, more advanced investigative techniques may be required to achieve success.