Centrumnummers

Centrumnummers are a series of telephone numbers in the Netherlands used for reverse directory inquiries. Introduced in the 1990s, they are maintained by the Dutch data broker Centrum voor Telecom Data (CTD) and are updated on a regular basis.

To use a Centrumnummer, one is required to dial the special three-digit code 0800-1000, followed by the twelve digit Centrumnummer. This number is generated using a random number generator, with the goal of allowing customers to provide some information about the person or company they are searching for.

One of the key features of Centrumnummers is that they do not disclose any personal information on the individual being searched for, but rather provide a collection of publicly available data that is used to narrow down the search results. This data may include workplace, address, and other details.

It is worth noting that using Centrumnummers is generally considered to be a public service in the Netherlands, and is not an invasive act. However, some people may choose to opt out of being listed in the Centrumnummers database, for reasons of personal privacy.

Overall, Centrumnummers are used in order to facilitate private inquiries, particularly in workplace-related searches or when looking for someone who one has lost contact with. They are an important tool in the Dutch culture of data sharing and anonymity.

In practice, Centrumnummers have been used in various contexts, including business and personal searches, but people use this system mostly to find these numbers of utility companies or other companies they might contact. By the government and the Dutch data brokers this system is generally accepted and endorsed.