How to Block Your Number When Calling
Have you ever wanted to make a phone call without revealing your phone number? Perhaps you’ve received unwanted calls and want to protect your privacy, or maybe you’re trying to call someone who you don’t want to have your phone number. Whatever the reason may be, there are several ways to block your number when making a call. In this article, we’ll explore how to block your number step-by-step, as well as alternatives to blocking, frequently asked questions, pros and cons, personal anecdotes, and a conclusion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Blocking your number can be done on various devices, including iPhones, Androids, and landlines. Here are step-by-step instructions for each:
iPhone
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and select Phone.
3. Select Show My Caller ID.
4. Toggle the button to the off position.
Pros: This method is free and you can easily turn your caller ID back on if you change your mind.
Cons: This method is not foolproof, as some people may have settings that allow them to see your number even when you’ve blocked it.
Android
1. Open the Phone app.
2. Select the three-dot menu icon.
3. Select Settings.
4. Scroll down and select Calls.
5. Select Additional Settings.
6. Select Caller ID.
7. Select Hide Number.
Pros: This method is free and works on most Android devices.
Cons: Some people may have settings that let them see your number even when you’ve blocked it.
Landline
To block your number on a landline, you’ll need to contact your phone company to activate caller ID blocking. Different companies have different methods for doing this, but most will involve dialing a specific code before making your call.
Pros: This method is reliable and works on all landline phones.
Cons: It may require contacting your phone company and paying a fee.
Mobile Devices
There is no one way to block your number when calling from a mobile device, as it varies by device and carrier. Here are some commonly used methods:
1. *67: This is a code that you dial before making your call. It will block your number for that one call only. For example, you would dial *67-555-555-5555 to block your number when calling that specific number.
2. Third-party apps: Google Voice and Burner are two popular third-party apps that can be used to keep your number hidden when making calls.
Pros: These methods are versatile and work on most mobile devices.
Cons: *67 doesn’t offer a permanent solution and third-party apps may require a fee.
Alternatives to Blocking
Third-Party Apps
Google Voice and Burner are two of the most commonly used third-party apps for those who want to hide their phone number. Google Voice allows you to choose a new phone number to use as your caller ID, while Burner lets you create temporary phone numbers that you can use for specific purposes.
Pros: These apps offer long-term solutions for those who do not want to block their number.
Cons: Some third-party apps require a fee, and they may not work with emergency services.
*67
Using *67 allows you to block your number for a specific call, but it’s not a permanent solution. When you use *67, the person you’re calling will see ‘Unknown’ or ‘Private’ rather than your phone number.
Pros: This method is free and does not require any downloads or installations.
Cons: *67 does not work with emergency services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does blocking your number impact emergency services?
Yes, blocking your number can make it difficult for emergency services to locate you in case of an emergency. It’s recommended to only block your number when making non-emergency calls.
Is it possible to block your number for outgoing international calls?
It’s not possible to block your number on international calls, as each country has its own laws regarding caller ID.
Pros and Cons of Blocking Your Number
Blocking your number has both pros and cons:
Pros:
- Protects your privacy and identity from unknown or unwanted callers
- Blocks telemarketers and spam calls
- Allows you to control who can see your phone number
Cons:
- May make it difficult for emergency services to locate you in case of an emergency
- Some people may not answer calls from unknown or private numbers
- May be seen as suspicious by some people
Ultimately, whether or not to block your number is a personal choice that depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Personal Anecdotes
Many people have their own stories and insights into whether or not to block their phone number. Some people believe it’s a necessity for privacy and safety, while others see it as unnecessary and potentially harmful in certain situations. Here are a few examples:
Story #1: Mary, a college student, would always block her number when calling potential employers for job interviews. She felt more comfortable not revealing her number until she was called back for a second interview.
Story #2: John, an elderly man, would never answer calls from unknown numbers, so he started to block his number whenever he would call his grandson’s phone.
Story #3: Mark, a salesman, would usually block his number when calling potential customers. However, he realized that the majority of his calls were going to voicemail and he was losing business. He decided to stop blocking his number and his sales increased.
These stories show that blocking your number is a personal choice that can have different impacts depending on the situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several ways to block your number when making a call, including using your iPhone, Android, landline, or third-party apps. Alternatives to blocking include using *67 or third-party apps, and there are pros and cons to each method. Personal anecdotes show that the choice to block your number is a personal one that depends on individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not to block your number when making a phone call.
