Patent US 7,573,993

A system and a method for automatically routing Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) calls made to an unavailable number to a directory assistance service for further assistance. An intercept system intercepts these erroneous VoIP calls and automatically routes them to a directory assistance service. The directory assistance service can provide any additional information associated with the unavailable number, such as alternate numbers. The directory assistance service also can provide information regarding other subscribers having similar characteristics to the unavailable number that the caller is attempting to reach. Additionally, the directory assistance service can provide general or targeted advertisements to the caller before, during, and/or after providing directory assistance to the caller.