what to know
- Type *67 before the number to block Caller ID for outgoing calls.
- Some carriers allow you to enable hidden numbers in the phone app.
- If all else fails, call your carrier and ask them to keep your number private.
This article will walk you through a few different ways to make your number private so that when you call someone, your phone number doesn't show up on their caller ID.
One of the quickest and easiest ways to hide your number from callers is to use the *67 trick. Doing so will cause your number to appear as "Private" or "Blocked" to recipients. You'll have to do this manually for every call you make, though, as you can't automate it.
If your number is found on a cell phone lookup website, you can hide your number by removing your personal information from the website.
Some Android devices and mobile operators offer the option to hide your number by default so you don't have to enter *67 every time you make a call. Here's how to block your mobile number using your phone's built-in hidden number feature:
Open the Phone app (called Phone on some devices).
Select the three-dot menu icon in the upper right corner of the window.
Select Settings .
Click "Call" or "Call Account" if you see it.
Tap Additional settings (some phones call this Supplementary settings ).
Select Caller ID .
Select Hide Number from the pop-up menu.
If you want your number to appear again temporarily, you can add *82 in front of the number you dial.
If your phone doesn't include the option to hide caller ID, your service provider may offer it. If they don't offer an app for blocking your caller ID, try contacting through their support line.
For example, Verizon users can block their caller ID using the My Verizon app. If you're an AT&T customer, they recommend contacting AT&T Wireless support; Caller ID blocking is free for all users.
If none of the above solutions work for you, you can purchase a prepaid phone, often called a disposable number or disposable number.
Google Voice is another option. It gives you a second phone number for free that you can use to make anonymous calls.
There are some phones where you can't hide your number. No matter what you do, toll-free and 911 emergency services will always see your number. Some third-party apps can allow someone to bypass any digital obfuscation you set up, so none of these methods are guaranteed.
