What is CNAM?
CNAM (Caller Name) is the caller ID name associated with a phone number. When you receive a call, your phone displays the CNAM from the carrier's database.
CNAM lookup queries carrier databases to retrieve this information for any phone number.
What to Consider When Choosing
Data Freshness
CNAM data can be:
- Real-time dips — Query carrier database on demand (most accurate)
- Cached data — Stored copies that may be outdated
VeriRoute Intel performs real-time carrier dips for fresh data.
Coverage
Not all numbers have CNAM registered:
- Wireless numbers often have CNAM
- Some VoIP providers don't register CNAM
- Landlines typically have CNAM
No provider can return CNAM for numbers that don't have it registered.
Combined Data
VeriRoute Intel provides CNAM with a simple API call:
curl -X POST https://api-service.verirouteintel.io/api/v1/cnam \
-H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" \
-H "Content-Type: application/json" \
-d '{"phone_number": "15551234567"}'
# Response
{
"data": {
"number": "15551234567",
"cnam": "JOHN SMITH"
},
"errors": []
}VeriRoute Intel Advantages
1. LRN Activation Date
Get CNAM plus exclusive LRN Activation Date in one call. Other CNAM providers don't offer this fraud-detection data.
2. Preview Before Paying
For bulk CNAM lookups, see sample results before committing. Verify data quality first.
3. Combined Pricing
One lookup can include CNAM, LRN, carrier, line type — often cheaper than separate providers for each data type.
4. Self-Service Access
Sign up online, get API key instantly, start making lookups. No sales process required.
CNAM Limitations (All Providers)
Understand these inherent limitations:
- 15-character limit — Names are truncated
- User-editable — Some carriers let users change their CNAM
- Propagation delays — Changes take time to update
- No guarantee of accuracy — CNAM reflects what's registered
Use CNAM as one signal among many, not as sole identity verification.
CNAM Use Cases
- Identity verification — Does CNAM match provided name?
- CRM enrichment — Fill in missing contact names
- Fraud screening — Flag mismatched names
- Agent screen pops — Show caller name to agents
Get CNAM + More
CNAM, carrier, line type, and LRN Activation Date in one lookup.