How To Hide Your Number When Calling Someone

In today's world, keeping our information private is more important than ever. With companies like LinkedIn adding features that let you browse anonymously, it's clear that privacy and security are big deals. 

In line with enhanced privacy, did you know that you can now call someone without showing your number on their phone? Maybe you're surprising a friend, or you need to keep your number a secret for safety reasons. Let's talk about how to hide your number when calling someone.

How To Hide Your Number When Calling

Whether for personal discretion or anonymity, hiding your phone number while making calls is a feature available in most phones and services. Below, we will talk about the simple steps to make a call without revealing your identity. Here are some ways that you can ensure your privacy is maintained when calling someone:

Using Device Settings

Many modern smartphones include an option in their settings that allows users to suppress their caller ID. This function can typically be turned on or off easily, enabling you to decide when you'd like to keep your number private. Here are the steps to adjust this setting on various devices:

For iPhone

1. Open the "Settings" phone app.
2. Scroll down and tap "Phone."
3. Find "Show My Caller ID" and tap it.
4. Switch off the option to hide your number when you call someone.

For Android Phones

1. Go to the "Phone" app and tap the three dots in the top-right corner.
2. Choose "Settings" from the menu, then, if you have a Samsung phone, choose "Supplementary settings."
3. Look for "Calling accounts" or "Additional settings."
4. Tap "Show Caller ID" and select "Hide number."

This might be the easiest way to hide your number, and it only applies when you are using the device that you have adjusted.

Using Dialing Codes

In addition to device settings, you can use specific dialling codes to block your number on a call-by-call basis. This is particularly useful if you do not wish to change your phone’s settings permanently or if you only need to make an anonymous call occasionally.

The *67 prefix is a well-known vertical service code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that allows callers to block their caller ID for individual calls. By dialling *67 before the number you wish to call, your phone number is hidden and will appear as "Private," "Anonymous," or similar wording on the recipient's caller ID. Here's how you can use this feature on different devices:

For iPhone and Android

1. Open the "Phone" or "Dialer" app.
2. Dial *67 before the number you wish to call.
3. The call will not show your number on the recipient's caller ID.

For Landline Phones

1. Pick up the phone and wait for a dial tone.
2. Dial *67, followed by the number you wish to call.
3. The call will not show your number on the recipient's caller ID.

And voila! Your number is hidden for that specific call. Just remember that there are limitations to this method, such as it only works for voice calls and not text messages. You should also consider checking with your service provider for any additional fees or restrictions when using this feature.

Using Carrier Services

Phone companies offer services to keep your number hidden. It's a good way to stay private without changing settings each time. Here are the steps you need to take to hide your number using carrier services:

1. Contact your phone company and ask if they offer a caller ID-blocking service.
2. Ask them to activate the service for you.
3. Once activated, dial *67 before making a call to hide your number automatically.

Some carriers even provide apps that enable you to hide your number easily without having to dial a code or change settings. Check with your provider for more information.

Using Third-Party Apps

There are apps out there that can hide your number. Some popular ones are Burner or Hushed. They give you a temporary number to use, which is great for privacy. But be careful, as some apps might not be secure or free.

How eSIMs Help With Privacy

If privacy is important to you, hiding your number isn't the only way to protect your identity. eSIMs, or embedded SIM cards, are an emerging technology offering more security and privacy than traditional SIM cards. They're all digital and are great for privacy because you can easily switch numbers or services without changing a physical SIM card.

Just make sure that you choose an eSIM provider that values and prioritizes data privacy. Truely is dedicated to providing secure and encrypted services, giving you peace of mind when it comes to your personal information. 

Truely also offers services in over 200 regions and destinations, allowing you to easily switch numbers and maintain your privacy no matter where you are in the world.

When to Use a Hidden Number

Hiding your number is okay in many cases, like when you're making surprise calls or dealing with sensitive information. But it's important to use this feature responsibly and make sure it's legal where you are. Scammers and telemarketers use the same methods to hide their numbers, so be mindful of how you use this feature.

You can also use hidden numbers for personal safety reasons. If you are meeting someone new or answering a call from an unknown number, hiding your number keeps your personal information safe. Just remember to always prioritize your security and privacy when using this feature.

Potential Consequences

Hiding your number can cause legal issues in some situations. For example, in certain countries, making anonymous calls or sending anonymous messages is illegal. Additionally, hiding your number may raise suspicion and cause the recipient to ignore or reject your call.

When used incorrectly and for malicious purposes, such as harassment or scams, hiding your number can have severe consequences. You may face legal action or damage your reputation. Lastly, some people might not answer calls from hidden numbers. Always consider how the other person might feel and stay within the law.

Final Thoughts

You now know how to hide your number when calling someone — from using phone settings to apps. It's a useful feature that helps keep your information safe. Just remember to respect others' privacy too. Use this feature responsibly and stay within the law to avoid any potential consequences. And if you value privacy, consider using eSIM technology for added security and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does hiding my number work when calling internationally?

Usually, no. The *67 code and similar features work mostly for local calls within your country.

Will my number show if the recipient has call unmasking technology?

There's a chance it might. Some services can reveal hidden numbers, but it depends on how you've hidden your number and the technology they're using.

Can I hide my number when sending text messages?

It's harder to hide your number when texting. Most times, your number will show up unless you use an app designed to send anonymous messages.

If my call is blocked, will hiding my number bypass the block?

No, hiding your number doesn't bypass call blocks. If someone has blocked your number, using *67 or another method won't make your call go through.