Need to Make a Private Call? Here's How to Block Your Number

Have you ever received a phone call from a number you don't recognize, and then they don't even leave a voicemail? It gets you wondering who the mysterious person is that's calling you and what they could possibly need. So, of course, you want to call them back—but maybe not from your own number (that would be too obvious!). Luckily, if you're looking for how to block your number , there are a few low-key ways to do so.

Whether it's to avoid telemarketers, maintain anonymity or simply keep personal information private, blocking your phone number from appearing on caller ID is an essential tool. Everyone's got to do it sometimes. Plus, it's easier to block your number than you may realize!

It doesn't matter if you have an iPhone or an Android. There are solutions for everyone when it comes to blocking your number when calling someone. From temporary solutions for specific calls to more permanent setting, Parade has all of the information on how to block your number. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions.

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How To Block Your Number When Calling Someone

Maintaining your privacy when making phone calls is increasingly important, and knowing how to block your number when calling someone is a valuable tool in a pinch. Perhaps you don't want somebody having your phone number or you want to reduce the number of junk calls you get.

Protecting your personal information and keeping your identity private is nothing to feel bad about! Here's how to block your number when calling someone on both an iPhone and an Android.

On an iPhone

If you're team iPhone, here's a step-by-step breakdown of how to block your number when calling someone:

1. On your iPhone, begin by going to your Settings app.

2. In Settings, go to Phone.

3. Under the Calls section, select Show My Caller ID.

4. Simply toggle off Show My Caller ID to block your number when calling someone.

If you don't see "Show My Caller ID" in your iPhone settings, your cell phone carrier may not have this capability. Keep reading for another foolproof method for blocking your number that isn't so permanent.

On an Android

Team Android, please stand up! Looking for instructions on how to block your number when calling someone on an Android? Here's how:

1. On your Android, begin by opening the Phone app.
2. Click the three-dot menu near the top.
3. Now, select your Settings.
4. Scroll down to Calls or Calling accounts, depending on what your Android displays.
5. Select Additional settings for the SIM card you'd like to hide your number for.
6. Select the Caller ID option and Hide number.

Again, if you do not see the "Caller ID" option in your Android's settings, your cell phone carrier may not provide this capability.

Other Ways to Block Your Number AKA Make a Private Call

If your cell phone carrier does not allow you to block your number, there are still a few timeless methods that work for making private calls. One longtime favorite is using *67, and it's absolutely foolproof.

1. Go to your Phone app, where you would manually dial a number.
2. Enter *67 first, followed by the phone number you want to call.
3. Call away!

The *67 trick has been around for quite some time, and it still works today! The person receiving the call will see 'Anonymous' or 'Private' as the caller ID. It's the perfect way to block your number and make a private call without the caller ID blocking capability.

If you are seeking a more permanent setting, you can speak with your cell phone service provider about receiving caller ID blocking capabilities. Contact them directly to learn more.

Another way to make a private call is to step away from your phone app and download an app that provides you with a different phone number. A couple of apps you can use include Google Voice and Burner .

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