Blocking your number hides your caller ID so the person you call sees 'Unknown' or 'Private' instead of your phone number. You can do it for a single call with a dialing prefix, or set your phone to hide your number on every call.
What you'll need
- Your phone
Step by step
- Hide your number for one callDial a prefix before the number. In the US and Canada use *67, and in the UK use 141. The recipient sees a blocked or private caller for that call only.
- Set your iPhone to always hide itOpen Settings, tap Apps then Phone (or Phone directly on older iOS), choose 'Show My Caller ID', and turn it off so your number stays hidden on all calls.
- Set an Android to always hide itOpen the Phone app, tap the menu, go to Settings then Calls or Caller ID, and select 'Hide number'. Menu names vary by phone brand.
- Ask your carrier if neededIf your phone has no caller ID toggle, contact your mobile carrier, who can enable permanent caller ID blocking on your line.
- Test itCall someone you know and confirm your call shows as private or unknown on their screen.
Handy tips
- Use *67 (or 141) for a one-off private call without changing your regular settings.
- If you have blocked your number by default, dial *82 before a number to show your caller ID for that single call.
Heads up
- Blocking caller ID does not hide your number from emergency services, and many people send private calls straight to voicemail or reject them.
FAQ
Does *67 work on every call?
It works on most standard calls in the US and Canada, but only for the single call you dial it before. Some businesses can still capture withheld numbers.
Will the person still know someone called?
Yes. They see an incoming call labeled Private, Unknown, or Blocked. Your number is hidden, but the call itself is not.
Can I hide my number on texts too?
No. Caller ID blocking applies to calls, not text messages. Texts still show your number unless you use a separate texting service.