You need to call someone but don't want them to see your number. Maybe you're calling about a job listing and don't want random callbacks. Or you're reaching out to someone you don't know well. Whatever the reason, hiding your caller ID is easier than you think. Here's how do you private call using your iPhone, Android, or landline—with clear steps and honest warnings about what works and what doesn't.
Are there any limits to this? Yes. It won't work on toll-free numbers or 911. Some people block hidden calls. Your carrier might override these settings. Now let's look at the specifics.
Star 67 is the easiest way to block caller id for a single call. It works on almost any phone—iPhone, Android, or landline. When you use star 67, the person you're calling sees "Private," "Unknown," or "No Caller ID" instead of your number.
Here's how to call private using star 67:
Example: To call 555-123-4567 privately, dial *67-555-123-4567
Does star 67 still work? Yes, but it has limits. It won't hide your number from toll-free numbers (800, 888, 877). Emergency services like 911 will always see your real number. Some businesses and people automatically block calls from hidden numbers.
If you're outside the US and Canada, star 67 probably won't work. In the UK, use the UK 141 code instead. Dial 141 + the phone number to make an anonymous call.
For other countries, contact your phone carrier to learn the local code for blocking caller ID.
Sometimes you want to block caller id permanently instead of dialing star 67 every time. Both iPhone and Android let you hide caller ID on iPhone and hide caller ID on Android through your settings.
To hide your number on all outgoing calls:
Now every call you make will appear as "No Caller ID" to the person you're calling.
Important note: Some carriers remove this toggle from iPhone settings. If you don't see the "Show My Caller ID" option, your carrier controls this feature. You'll need to contact them directly to enable permanent caller ID blocking.
Android phones handle caller ID settings differently depending on your phone manufacturer and carrier. Here's the general path:
The exact wording varies by phone. Samsung phones might say "Show caller ID." Google Pixel phones often put this under "Calls" then "Additional settings." If you can't find these Caller ID settings, search for "Caller ID" in your phone's main Settings app.
You Should Ask Your Carrier for Caller ID Blocking
All major phone carriers can apply caller ID blocking at your account level. Call customer service and ask for "caller ID blocking" or "anonymous calling."
This works even when your phone doesn't have the setting built-in.
The downside? You might pay a monthly fee (usually $2-5). The upside? It works reliably and can't be accidentally turned off.
Sometimes blocking caller ID isn't enough. You might want a completely separate number for certain activities. A second phone number app gives you more control and flexibility than star 67.
Popular options include getting a Google Voice number (free) or using a burner number app like Burner or Hushed (paid). These apps give you a real phone number that forwards to your main phone.
Benefits of a second phone number:
The setup is usually quick. Download the app, pick your number, and start using it right away. When people call your second number, your phone rings but shows the second number as the caller.
Let's say you've set your phone to hide caller ID on every call, but now you need to show your number for one specific call. Maybe you're calling for a delivery or need a callback from customer service.
Use star 82 to show your caller ID for just that call. Here's how to unblock caller id for one call:
Example: *82-555-123-4567
This temporarily overrides your permanent caller ID blocking setting. Your next call will go back to being private.
Before you start making private calls, understand the limits:
Toll-free and emergency numbers always see your real number. This includes 800, 888, and 877 numbers, plus 911 and other emergency services. This is built into the phone system for safety and business reasons.
Some people and businesses automatically block hidden calls. They won't even ring – the call just fails or goes straight to a "this number doesn't accept private calls" message.
Text messages don't work with star 67. If you want to send anonymous texts, you need a second phone number app or Google Voice number.
Your carrier might override your settings. Some phone companies don't allow permanent caller ID blocking or might charge extra fees.
This usually means your carrier controls the caller ID setting. Contact them to enable it on your account.
Phone manufacturers change these menus frequently. Try searching for "Caller ID" in your main Settings app, or check if your carrier has their own phone app with these controls.
Call a friend or family member to confirm they see "Private" or "Unknown" instead of your number. You can also call your own voicemail from another phone to test.
Yes, star 67 works on most US and Canadian phone networks. It won't work for toll-free numbers, 911, or people who block private calls.
Generally yes for normal personal use. Don't use it to harass people or commit fraud – that's illegal regardless of whether you hide your number.
Most landline carriers support star 67, but some use different codes. Ask your phone company about their caller ID blocking options.
Yes, emergency services always see your real number and location, even when you're using caller ID blocking. This is a safety feature.
The person you're calling might block all private calls. Try calling with star 82 to show your number, or leave a voicemail explaining who you are.
Your phone will show "Private," "Unknown," "No Caller ID," or similar instead of a phone number.
No, star 67 doesn't work for text messages. You need a second phone number app like Google Voice or a burner number service.
Now you know exactly how do you private call using different methods. Star 67 works great for one-off calls when you want quick privacy. Permanent caller ID blocking through your phone settings or carrier works better if you want to hide your number most of the time. A second phone number gives you the most control and works for both calls and texts.
Remember that private calling is a tool for legitimate privacy, not for bothering people. If someone doesn't answer your private call, respect their choice. Many people don't answer unknown numbers as a safety precaution. When in doubt, leave a polite voicemail explaining who you are and why you're calling.
Choose the method that fits your needs, test it with a friend first, and use it responsibly.
Your privacy matters, but so does being a good phone citizen.