block number when calling

To block your number when calling (so the person you call does not see your phone number), you generally have three main options that work in most countries and on most carriers.

1. Quick one‑time block with a prefix code

Use a short code before the number you’re dialing so your caller ID shows as “Private,” “Blocked,” or “Unknown.”

• On many networks in North America: dial *67 + phone number (for example, *67 555‑123‑4567).

• In some countries or specific carriers, the code might differ (for example, #31# is common outside North America).

• This typically hides your number only for that single call ; your next call will show your number again unless you re‑enter the prefix.

This method is useful when you just need a one‑off private call, like phoning a business or a new contact.

2. Turn off caller ID in your phone settings

You can usually change a setting on your phone so your number is hidden by default for outgoing calls, instead of dialing a code each time.

On iPhone

• Open Settings.
• Tap Phone.
• Tap Show My Caller ID.
• Turn the switch off to hide your number on outgoing calls.

On Android (wording may vary)

• Open the Phone app.
• Tap the three‑dot More menu or Settings.
• Go to Call settings or Additional settings.
• Tap Caller ID and choose Hide number.

Once enabled, all regular outgoing calls will appear as private unless you override it (for example by using the “show caller ID” option if your carrier supports it).

3. Use carrier‑level blocking or special services

Some carriers let you hide your number at the account level, or provide extra privacy features.

• You may be able to request “permanent caller ID blocking” on your line so all calls go out as private by default.

• Some carriers offer apps or account dashboards where you can toggle outbound caller ID settings.

• This is handy if you want a set‑and‑forget solution and don’t want to depend on phone‑specific settings.

Check your carrier’s support page or contact customer support to see what options they support and if there are any fees.

Important limitations and notes

Even when you block your number, there are cases where it still might be visible.

• Toll‑free numbers (like 800/888/… in the US) and many emergency or government numbers can usually see your number even if you block caller ID.

• Some call‑back or “last call return” services (for example, network codes like *69 on some systems) can reveal or redial blocked numbers.

• Certain spam‑detection or business‑telephony systems may still be able to identify you at a network level, even if the recipient’s phone shows “Private caller.”

• If your carrier or country does not support hiding caller ID from phone settings, you may be forced to rely on codes like *67 or third‑party solutions.

Using blocked caller ID is a common privacy feature, but it’s also one used by scammers and robocallers, so many people ignore or automatically reject private calls.

Mini example: using it in practice

Imagine you need to call a seller from an online marketplace but don’t want to reveal your number permanently.

• For a one‑time call: open the dialer and type *67, then the seller’s number, and place the call.

• If you expect multiple calls: on your phone, turn off “Show My Caller ID,” make your calls, and then turn it back on when you’re done.

This way you stay in control of who can see your number while still being able to reach people when needed.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.