How to block or hide your own phone number

You don’t always want people to know your phone number. It’s become a private piece of information we don’t usually share with everyone. Many of us keep another number to give to those we don’t entirely trust or to give to businesses. Thankfully, it’s possible to block your number from showing up in the caller ID when you call someone.

The process is pretty simple, but you have to know how to do it. There is no straightforward way to do this, and options in the settings are usually very well hidden (or non-existent). Let’s show you how to hide your number to ensure no one will be bugging you afterward.

Read more: The ten best privacy apps for Android

The simplest and most universal way to hide your number when calling someone is to use the *67 code. This will work with almost any smartphone, and nearly all carriers support it. It even works with landlines.

You have to dial *67 before the number you want to call. For example, you would dial *67-123-456-7890.

Also: The best dialer apps

Block your number in the settings

The problem with using the dial code to hide your number is that you have to remember to do it every time you want to hide your number. Those who want a set-it-and-forget-it approach can also play with the settings. Using this method has its downsides, though. Not all smartphones and dialers give you the option to block your number. Additionally, the carrier has to allow it.

How to block your number from the iOS settings

• Open the Settings app.
• Go into Phone.
• Tap Show My Caller ID.
• Toggle off Show My Caller ID.

How to block your number from the Android settings

• Open the Phone app.
• Tap the three-dot menu button.
• Hit Settings.
• Go into Calls.
• Select Additional settings.
• If your service provider allows it, you’ll be able to tap the Caller ID option.
• Select Hide number.

Some carriers and phone service providers offer the option to block your number from caller IDs at a network level. This means that your phone number would be hidden for every call, regardless of your phone, as long as you keep the feature enabled. Of course, you’ll have to reach out to your carrier or service provider to see if it offers this service. Additionally, it might be a feature that requires an added fee.

Can I send texts from a hidden number?

There is no official way to send texts from a hidden number using only your native SMS service. That said, it’s possible to hide your number while texting, given you don’t mind using a third-party service.

Not usually, but it can, depending on the method you use. For example, sometimes carriers charge a fee to hide your number at the network level. Some third-party services and apps also charge for premium features. Using a dial code or the settings should incur no extra charges.

Can I hide my number while texting?

Not really, but you can use other services that assign you random numbers, effectively masking your phone number.

Can I call back a hidden number?

Sometimes, yes. You can dial *69 to call the last phone number that called you, even if it’s private. That said, the person won’t know the number. Additionally, carriers may put limitations on this, such as time limits. Some also block this feature altogether. Sometimes service providers can list private numbers in call logs, so you might have some luck checking those.