Even though caller ID enables the person you’re calling to know who you are, you may not want this for every single call. In some cases, you may want to block your caller ID and make a private phone call. So, how can you do this on your cell phone? Below, we discuss how to block caller ID on iPhone and Android, and some reasons why you may want to.

Why Do You Want To Block Caller ID?

#1: To Protect Your Identity And Information

Blocking your caller ID can prevent those searching your number from learning personal information about you. So, the people who have your phone number in their contacts can only identify you. If you’re a parent, you may do this on your child’s phone to protect them as well.

#2: Calling From Work

In some cases, you may have to hide your caller ID from a work number. If you’re reaching out to potential clients and looking for opportunities, you may not want to give your business phone number away to complete strangers. If you don’t block it, your phone could be given to spam callers, or you could be harassed by clients who aren’t pleased with you.

#3: Making An Anonymous Call

If you witnessed a crime or want to report something else to the police, you might possibly want to make an anonymous phone call. One reason why you might do this is because you don’t want to be involved in an investigation and have your employer find out.

How To Block Caller ID

There is one method of blocking your caller ID that works on both iOS and Android devices. It enables you to block your caller ID on a call-by-call basis.

• Go to your Phone app, and click on Keypad.
• Dial *67, followed by the number you would like to call.

• Press the call button, and the call recipient will see No Caller ID or Restricted Call.

How To Block Caller ID On iPhone

• Go to your Settings app.

• Click on Phone.

• Then, choose Show My Caller ID.

• Click on the Show My Caller ID button to turn it off. It should not appear green.

• Once this setting is off, if you would like to show your caller ID, either turn this setting back on or dial *86 before the number on your keypad.

How To Block Caller ID On Android

*Note: This feature does not work with Verizon customers.

• Go to the Phone app.
• Click on the menu on the top right, and choose Settings.
• Scroll down and click on More Settings.
• Choose Show my caller ID.
• Select Hide my number.

Caller ID Blocking Apps To Try

If you don’t want to use the built-in methods to block your phone number caller ID, you can utilize apps in the Google Play or App Store. 

Hushed

If you want to call from a private number or call anonymously, you can do so using Hushed. Use the app to get multiple fake numbers you can give out to those you date, work acquaintances, and strangers. All calls and texts are directed to the app to keep the conversations private and your identity safe. To date, the app has 8+ Million downloads and works in over 50 countries.

Burner

Just like you would with a burner phone, the Burner app provides you with a second phone number to use. All outgoing and incoming calls and texts are re-routed to the app for safety and privacy. The app does have a 7-day free trial for you to try it out before purchasing a subscription.

Those are the different ways of how to block caller ID on iPhone and Android. So, next time you need to make a private call whether for work or to protect yourself, utilize these methods.

Related Post: Who Called You From A Restricted Number?