Abstract: A method using an Internet or similar connection to provide network users with information about and control over a communications service feature. A communications switch routes communications in the network to and from the user and a feature control process provides the communications service feature to the user. A processor in communication with the feature control process and a user terminal provides the user with information about and control over the communications service feature at the user terminal. The process can be a dedicated Internet server and the user can manage the communications service feature from a home page displayed on the user terminal.

Abstract: A method and apparatus using information stored in a communications switch to trace a specific communication in a network, including an in-progress communication. A search request with a set of search criteria is sent to a communications switch that routes communications in the network. Information stored in the communications switch, such as a communications switch call record, is searched to locate information matching the set of search criteria in the search request. The results of the search are reported out of the communications switch allowing the specific communication to be traced.

Abstract: Increased network security is provided by monitoring in real time one or more characteristics or attributes of telephone calls that are placed through the network and notifying the network customer (i.e., the party responsible for paying for the telephone calls), in real time, when the attributes are indicative of abnormal or fraudulent network usage. The network customer, once notified of the abnormal usage, is in a position to take steps to minimize unauthorized network usage. For example, the network customer can selectively block network usage, deny access to the network on a call-by-call basis, or trace the call to catch the unauthorized user while the call is still in progress.

Abstract: A facility is provided in a telecommunications network so that a record containing details about an associated call may be delivered to a customer in real time during the progression of the call and/or immediately after the call has been terminated.