If you’re looking for a way to keep your phone number private when making calls, you can block your number. This is a great way to protect your privacy, especially if you’re calling someone you don’t know well. Blocking your number is easy to do, and it only takes a few seconds. Here’s how to do it:
On an iPhone, you can block your number by going to the Settings app and then tapping on “Phone.” From there, tap on “Show My Caller ID” and then toggle the switch to the “Off” position. This will block your number from being displayed when you make calls. However, it’s important to note that this will only work if the person you’re calling is using a phone that supports caller ID.
If you’re calling someone who doesn’t have a phone that supports caller ID, you can still block your number by using a third-party app. There are a number of different apps available that can block your number, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Once you’ve installed the app, you can simply open it and follow the instructions to block your number.
Override the Network Settings
If you’re unable to block your number using the default method, you can try overriding the network settings. This method involves manually configuring your phone’s network settings to block outgoing caller ID information. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Go to the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
- Tap on “Phone.”
- Tap on “Show My Caller ID.”
- Toggle the switch to “Off.” This will disable caller ID for all outgoing calls.
- Insert a custom caller ID by tapping on “Custom Caller ID.” Enter the desired caller ID in the field provided.
- Tap on “Done” to save your settings.
Note that overriding the network settings may not work with all carriers. Some carriers may have restrictions in place that prevent users from blocking their caller ID.
Use a Third-Party App
If you’re not comfortable with the idea of using your carrier’s services or if you’re looking for a more customizable option, you can use a third-party app to block your number. There are many different apps available, both free and paid, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
One popular option is Burner, which allows you to create temporary phone numbers that you can use to make calls and send texts without revealing your real number. This can be a good option if you’re looking for a way to block your number for a specific purpose, such as signing up for a new online service or making a phone call to someone you don’t know.
Another option is Hushed, which offers a similar service to Burner but also allows you to create multiple phone numbers and manage them from a single account. This can be useful if you need to block your number for multiple purposes or if you want to be able to switch between different numbers easily.
| App | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Burner | Create temporary phone numbers Make calls and send texts without revealing your real number |
Free for 30 days, then $4.99/month |
| Hushed | Create multiple phone numbers Manage phone numbers from a single account |
Free for 7 days, then $4.99/month |
Hide Your Number for Individual Contacts
To selectively hide your phone number for specific contacts only, follow these steps:
- Open the Messages app on your iPhone.
- Create a new message or select an existing conversation with the contact you want to hide your number for.
- Tap on the Contact name or number at the top of the conversation thread.
- Scroll down and tap on the “Info” button.
- Locate the “Show My Caller ID” option.
- Toggle the switch to the “Off” position.
Once you disable “Show My Caller ID” for a specific contact, your phone number will be hidden when you call or text them. This setting is contact-specific, so you can hide your number for different contacts while keeping it visible for others.
Here is a step-by-step guide to hiding your number for only certain contacts:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the Messages app. |
| 2 | Start a new conversation or select an existing one. |
| 3 | Tap the contact’s name, go to “Info,” and toggle off “Show My Caller ID.” |
| 4 | Repeat for other contacts as needed. |
Disable Caller ID from Your Carrier
Many carriers provide a service to let you disable caller ID per call, for a fee. While this is not a permanent solution, it can be helpful if you only need to hide your caller ID for a few calls. To disable caller ID from your carrier:
- Dial *67 before making the call.
- Enter the phone number you want to call.
- Press Call.
- Your caller ID will be blocked for that call.
Additional Details for Disabling Caller ID from Your Carrier
Here are some additional details to keep in mind when disabling caller ID from your carrier:
- Some carriers may require you to register for this service before you can use it.
- There may be a fee associated with this service.
- Disabling caller ID from your carrier will only block your phone number from being displayed on the recipient’s caller ID. It will not prevent your phone number from being tracked or recorded.
- If you need to permanently block your caller ID, you should use a call blocking app or service.
| Carrier | Service Code | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| AT&T | *67 | Free |
| Verizon | *67 | Free |
| T-Mobile | *67 | Free |
| Sprint | *67 | Free |
Request Anonymous Caller ID
To request anonymous Caller ID, you need to contact your phone carrier. They will be able to provide you with the necessary instructions on how to do so. Once you have requested anonymous Caller ID, your phone number will be hidden when you make calls. This can be a useful feature if you want to keep your phone number private, or if you are making calls to someone who you don’t want to know your phone number.
How to Request Anonymous Caller ID from Different Carriers
The process of requesting anonymous Caller ID may vary depending on your phone carrier. Here are the instructions for some of the major carriers:
| Carrier |
|---|
| AT&T |
| Verizon |
| T-Mobile |
| Sprint |
Once you have requested anonymous Caller ID, it will typically take a few hours for the change to take effect. After that, your phone number will be hidden when you make calls.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using anonymous Caller ID. First, it is important to note that it is not a foolproof way to keep your phone number private. There are some ways that people can still find out your phone number, even if you have requested anonymous Caller ID. Second, anonymous Caller ID may not be available in all areas. If you are traveling to a different country, you may not be able to use anonymous Caller ID.
Overall, anonymous Caller ID can be a useful feature if you want to keep your phone number private. However, it is important to be aware of the limitations of anonymous Caller ID before using it.
Block Your Number Using *67
Dialing *67 before a phone number is a straightforward method to conceal your number. Follow these steps:
- Open the Phone app.
- Enter *67 followed by the number you want to call without hiding your caller ID.
- Press the Call button.
For example, if you want to call 555-123-4567 with your number hidden, dial *675551234567.
When to Use *67
- When you don’t want the recipient to know your number.
- When you’re calling a business or organization that you don’t want to be able to call you back.
- When you’re making a prank call.
Limitations of *67
Keep in mind that *67 is not always effective in hiding your number.
- Some phone carriers and services can override *67 and display your number.
- *67 doesn’t work with emergency calls (911).
- *67 may not work internationally.
| Provider | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Verizon | Works |
| AT&T | Works |
| T-Mobile | Works |
| Sprint | Works |
| Google Voice | Works |
Use a Burner Phone Number
A great way to completely mask your identity when making phone calls is to use a burner phone number. Burner numbers are temporary phone numbers that can be used for a set period of time, usually a few hours or days, before they expire and are discontinued. This makes them ideal for making anonymous phone calls, as there is no way to trace the number back to you.
There are a number of different ways to get a burner phone number. One option is to purchase a prepaid SIM card from a convenience store or online retailer. Another option is to use a VoIP service that allows you to create temporary phone numbers. Once you have a burner number, you can use it to make phone calls as usual. However, it is important to note that burner numbers are not always completely anonymous. Some VoIP services may require you to provide personal information when creating an account.
Additionally, law enforcement may be able to track down the owner of a burner number if they have a court order. However, using a burner number is still a good way to increase your privacy when making phone calls.
| Pros of Using a Burner Phone Number | Cons of Using a Burner Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Completely masks your identity | May not be completely anonymous |
| Can be used for a variety of purposes | Can be expensive to purchase and maintain |
| Easy to use | May not be compatible with all phones |
Employ a VPN
Utilizing a virtual private network (VPN) is a viable method for concealing your caller ID. When active, a VPN encrypts your internet connection, effectively masking your IP address and location. This added layer of privacy extends to your phone calls, as the VPN acts as an intermediary between your device and the recipient’s phone line. Consequently, the recipient will only see the VPN’s number, not your own.
Setting Up and Using a VPN
- Choose a reputable VPN provider: Research and select a reliable VPN service that offers strong encryption and a proven track record.
- Download and install the VPN app: Follow the provider’s instructions to install the VPN software on your iPhone.
- Connect to a VPN server: Open the VPN app and choose a server location from the list provided.
- Enable the VPN connection: Once a server is selected, activate the VPN connection to establish the secure tunnel.
- Make a phone call: Once the VPN is active, proceed to make a phone call as usual. The recipient will see the VPN’s number instead of your own.
Benefits of Using a VPN for Caller ID Blocking
- Enhanced Privacy: VPNs safeguard your privacy by concealing your real IP address and location, preventing others from tracking your online activities.
- Secure Phone Calls: By encrypting your phone calls, VPNs prevent eavesdropping and protect the confidentiality of your conversations.
- Bypass Geographic Restrictions: VPNs allow you to connect to servers in different countries, enabling you to bypass geographical restrictions and access content that may be blocked in your region.
Consider a Virtual Phone Number
A virtual phone number (VPN) is a cloud-based phone number that is not tied to a physical location, but instead is associated with a specific user or business.
Using a VPN can help to block your real phone number from being displayed to the person you are calling. This can be helpful for protecting your privacy, or for making prank calls without being identified.
There are a number of different VPN providers available. Each provider offers its own unique set of features, so it’s important to do your research and compare different options before choosing one.
Once you have chosen a VPN provider, you will need to create an account and set up your virtual phone number. The process for doing this typically involves entering some basic information, such as your name, email address and a password. Once you have set up your account, you can start using your VPN to make and receive calls.
| VPN Provider | Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | Free, unlimited calling within the US and Canada | $9.99/month for international calling |
| Skype | Low-cost international calling, video conferencing | $2.99/month for unlimited calling to landlines in 60 countries |
| Vonage | Business-class features, such as call forwarding and voicemail | $29.99/month for unlimited calling within the US and Canada |
Utilize a Call Blocking Service
Call blocking services provide an effective way to block your number from appearing on caller ID when making outgoing calls. These services typically offer customizable options, allowing you to specify which calls to block and which to allow. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use a call blocking service:
1. Choose a Call Blocking Service
Research and compare different call blocking services available for your device. Consider factors such as cost, features, user reviews, and compatibility with your phone or service provider.
2. Download and Install the App
Once you’ve chosen a service, download and install its app or software on your device. Make sure to grant the app the necessary permissions to function properly.
3. Set Up Your Call Blocking Preferences
Open the app and follow the prompts to set up your call blocking preferences. This may involve selecting the types of calls you want to block, such as outgoing calls only, incoming calls only, or both. Some services also allow you to create custom rules, such as blocking calls from specific numbers or area codes.
4. Test Your Call Blocking Settings
Make a test call to verify that your call blocking service is working correctly. Call a friend or family member and check if your number appears on their caller ID.
5. Manage Your Blocked Numbers
Over time, you may need to adjust your blocked numbers list. The call blocking app should provide an easy way to add, remove, or edit blocked numbers.
6. Check Compatibility with Your Service Provider
Some call blocking services may not be compatible with certain service providers or phone models. If you experience any issues, check with your service provider or the call blocking service for compatibility information.
7. Consider Paid Services
While many call blocking apps offer free basic services, some offer premium features for a fee. These features may include advanced call filtering options, unlimited blocking, or additional security measures.
8. Use Built-In Call Blocking Features
Some phone models have built-in call blocking features that you can use without the need for a third-party app. Check your phone’s settings to see if it supports call blocking.
9. Use Do Not Disturb Mode
Do Not Disturb mode can be a temporary solution to block incoming calls from all numbers except those in your contacts list or designated as allowed.
10. Contact Your Phone Carrier or Service Provider
If you’re having trouble blocking your number using the methods mentioned above, contact your phone carrier or service provider. They may offer additional options or provide assistance with setting up call blocking.
How To Block Your Number
There are several reasons why you might want to block your number when you make a phone call. You may want to protect your privacy, avoid unwanted calls, or prevent someone from knowing who is calling them. Whatever the reason, there are several ways to block your number on an iPhone.
One way to block your number is to use the *67 prefix. To do this, simply dial *67 followed by the number you want to call. Your number will be blocked for that call only.
Another way to block your number is to use the iPhone’s settings. To do this, go to Settings > Phone > Show My Caller ID and turn off the toggle switch.
If you have an iPhone that supports Face ID or Touch ID, you can also use these features to block your number. To do this, go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode or Settings > Touch ID & Passcode and turn on the toggle switch for “Block My Number”.
