Incoming Call Records

[lawbunny]

For the past couple of days I have been recieving withheld calls, all threatening. Since I work for T-Mobile I know the general rule is "sorry, we don't keep incoming call records". However, I know for legal reason they have to, don't they? Has anyone succeeded in getting a copy of their incoming call records from a mobile network?

[buzby]

Each netrwork has its own department that has access to all the data downloaded from the switch, including the number (even if withheld) and the cell site the call was delivered to. This data is retained for 3 years but not the actual content of the call (audio).

As a subscriber, you will not be able to request this, however this data will be released on request to the police (who will also know who to contact). The information is only disclosed in this way to keep the requests manageable, and to cut down of any possible forms of vigilantism. As to why you would want to and a withheld number.... I send all mine to voicemail.

[lawbunny]

I don't usually answer withheld calls, but I had about 9 of them and reckoned it was probably a company trying to sell me something, so I answered to tell them I'm registered with TPS but I just got a lot of abuse from someone.

Just as an extra point, I think it's actually someone I work with in the call centre... I'm gonna ask work if they can assist.

Thanks for the advice, that's what I reckoned tbh.

[Hobbie]

Even for a police officer to request this, he/she can not go direct to the network, it has to be a request sumitted detailing the reasons it is needed, what would happen to an investigation if the information wasn't made availble, and then have it approved by a senior officer in the ..., then that has to be passed on to the SPOC for the network, and takes about 14 days to come back.

It's not as easy as you may think in accessing this information, only time it can be supplied without this method is via a 3x9 call, and the information is made available within minutes if not seconds.

[buzby]

How each force decide to process these requests is up to them, and if one force requires a 'senior officer' to request the data, that that is their procedure. However, no network will refuse supplying the information providing it comes from official channels - and a single request from a police office (suitably verified) is official enough. Of course, the information is not available instantly, and budget restraints mean the cost for each enquiry must be met. (You didn't think the information was provided free of charge?).

[lawbunny]

I did actually manage to get a hold of the number that called me.... Let's just say, although the networks make out it's a very long complicated process and you should be eternally grateful if they take the time and effort to find out for you... I found out within 3 minutes at work....

[Hobbie]

3 minutes?! that long? if we're going to start saying how easy it is, then i'll add my 2 cents

people calling me on my mobile i'll get the callers number, even if you dial 141 or block your CLI some other way, i'll still see your number. how do i do this? well thats for me to know and you to guess.

But we we're talking about the average person trying to obtain this information, not using contacts through employment or abuse of power to get this information.

For Joe Public, it is not straight forward, and generally not available for you to query, even if making a S.A.R - (Subject Access Request).

[lawbunny]

Of course, I appreciate that. I was merely pointing out that networks lie to customers when telling them that they do not physically keep a record of incoming calls, as they do.

And I didn't use contacts through employment or an abuse of power.... I looked it up myself.