The Universal Star Code: The Fastest Way to Block Your Number for One Call
The absolute quickest method to block your cell phone number for a outgoing call is using the universal vertical service code 67. This code has been the standard for landlines and mobile phones for decades, and remains fully functional in 2026 all major carriers in the United States and Canada, including Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and their MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) like Mobile and Visible. To use it, simply dial 67 followed by the full 10-digit phone number you wish to call. For example, if you are calling 555-123-4567, you would dial *675551234567. The recipient see "Blocked," "Private," or "No Caller ID" on their screen instead of your actual number.
This method works for both voice calls and, in most cases, for text messages sent via SMS, though results can vary by carrier. It is important to note that 67 does not work for emergency services like 911, nor does it work for toll-free numbers (800, 888, 877, etc.) certain business numbers that have caller ID blocking detection enabled. Additionally, 67 only blocks your number for that specific call. Once you hang up, your caller ID will return to normal for your next call. This is ideal for situations where you need privacy for a single interaction, such as calling a doctor's office, a potential landlord, or a customer service line where you do not want your number stored.
A practical tip for 2026: some newer phone systems and VoIP services have started to ignore 67 because of spam call filtering. If you find that 67 is not working, try dialing 67 and waiting for a second dial tone before entering the number. If it still fails, move on to the permanent blocking methods described in the next section. Also, be aware that some carriers have introduced alternative codes like 82 to unblock your number if you have permanent blocking enabled, so keep that in mind if you change your mind mid-call.
Permanent Number Blocking: How to Hide Your Caller ID on Every Call
If you want to block your cell phone number on every call without having to dial *67 each time, you need to change your phone's settings or contact your carrier. For iPhone users running iOS 18 or later (the current version in 2026), go to, then Phone, then Show My Caller ID. You will see a switch. Turn it off (the switch will be gray). This setting tells your carrier to never send your caller ID information for any. For Android users, the path is similar but varies slightly by manufacturer. Generally, you open the Phone app, tap the three-dot menu in the corner, select Settings or Calling Accounts, then look for Additional Settings or Supplementary Services, and finally tap Caller ID. From there, select "Hide Number" or "Network Default" and choose the hide option.
It is critical to understand that this setting relies on your carrier supporting the feature. In 2026, all major US carriers support this, but some prepaid carriers or international SIMs may not. If you toggle setting and it does stick, or if you cannot find the option, you call your carrier customer service directly. Ask them to enable "Anonymous Caller Rejection" or "Permanent Caller ID Blocking" on your line. They can do this from their end in about two minutes. Be prepared to verify your account details. Once enabled, every call you make will show as "Private" or "Blocked" until you ask them to disable it.
common mistake people make in 2026 is assuming that turning "Show Caller ID" in their phone settings also blocks their number for text messages. It does not. SMS and MMS messages typically still transmit your phone number. To block your number for texts, you need to use a third-party app like TextNow or Google, which provide a secondary number. Also, remember that permanent blocking can cause issues. Some businesses, like banks and pharmacies, use automated systems that will not connect calls from blocked numbers. In those cases, you can temporarily unblock your number for a single call by dialing 82 before the number (the reverse of 67).
Using Third-Party Apps and Virtual Numbers for Ultimate Privacy
For the highest level of privacy in 2026, blocking your real cell phone number is only half the battle. Many people now use third-party apps that provide a completely separate virtual phone number. Apps like Google Voice, Burner, Hushed and TextFree allow you to make calls and send texts from a secondary number that is not linked your personal identity. When you call someone using these apps, your real cell phone number is never exposed. The recipient only sees the virtual number assigned to you by the app. This is especially useful for online dating, selling items on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace or conducting business where you do not want clients to have your personal line.
Google Voice is the most popular free option 202. You need a Google account, and you can a new number from available area codes. Once set up, you can make calls directly from the Google Voice app, and your real number is completely hidden. The downside is that Google Voice numbers are sometimes flagged as "virtual" by spam detection systems, and some services refuse to them for verification codes. For more robust privacy, paid apps like Burner allow you to create disposable numbers that you can delete after a single use or a set period. This is ideal for short projects or situations where you expect spam calls afterward.
Another advanced method is using a SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) softphone app like Zoiper or Linphone, combined with a paid VoIP provider. This gives you a professional-grade private number that routes through the internet. However, this requires more technical setup. For everyday users, the simplest approach is to download a burner app, purchase a number ( $2 to $5 per month), and use it exclusively for calls where you want to block your identity. Remember that these apps require data or Wi-Fi to work, so they will not function if you have no cellular data or internet connection.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Dial *67 before any phone number to block your ID for a single call but remember it does not work for 911 toll-free numbers.
- ✓ Permanently block your number on iPhone by going to Settings Phone > Show My Caller ID and toggling off; on Android, find the Caller ID setting in the Phone app's additional settings.
- ✓ Use third-party apps like Google Voice or Burner to get a completely separate virtual number that hides your real cell phone number entirely.
- ✓ Understand that emergency services, toll-free numbers, and anti-spoofing systems can bypass your caller ID block.
- ✓ Always verify your blocking is working by a friend and asking what they see, and contact your carrier if settings do not stick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does *67 work for text messages (SMS) in 2026?
A In most cases, *67 is designed for voice calls only and does not reliably block your for SMS text messages. Some carriers may pass the block through, but it is not guaranteed. To block your number for texts, you should use a third-party app that provides a secondary number, such as Google Voice orNow. These apps send texts from the virtual, keeping your real cell phone number completely hidden.
Can I block my number when calling 911?
No, you cannot block your number when calling911 or any emergency service. Federal regulations in the United States and similar laws in other countries require that your phone number and location be transmitted to dispatchers, if you have permanent caller ID blocking enabled. This is a critical safety feature. Do not attempt to test your blocking by calling emergency services.
Will blocking my number prevent someone from calling me back?
Yes, if you block your number, the person you called will not see your number on their caller ID, so they cannot call you back directly. However, they may be able to use features like *69 (Call Return) on some phone systems to automatically call the number that called them, even if was blocked. To prevent this entirely, use a virtual number from a third-party app.
Why does my blocked number still show up on some business phones?
Many businesses, especially those with toll-free numbers (800, 888, etc.), use Automatic Number Identification (ANI) which bypasses standard caller ID blocking. ANI is a separate system used for billing and routing that always reveals your real phone number. Additionally, some modern VoIP phone systems have STIR/SHAKEN protocols that can override your block. For these calls, your number will be visible regardless of your settings.
it illegal to block my caller ID?
No, it is perfectly legal to block your caller ID for legitimate privacy reasons in the United States, Canada and most other. However, it is illegal to use caller ID blocking for fraudulent purposes, such as scamming, harassment, or impersonating a business or government agency. This is known as "oofing" and is regulated by FCC and similar bodies worldwide. Always use blocking ethically.
Conclusion
Blocking your cell phone number a straightforward process that gives you essential control over your personal privacy in 2026. Whether you choose the instant convenience of *67 for a single call, the permanent protection of your phone's settings, or complete anonymity of a third-party virtual number, you now have the tools to prevent your number from falling into the wrong hands. Remember that no method is perfect, and you must be aware of the limitations with emergency services, toll-free numbers, and advanced carrier systems.
Your next step is to decide which method fits your lifestyle. If you only need occasional privacy, memorize *67. If you value constant privacy, toggle your permanent setting off right now. If you engage in online marketplaces or dating, download a burner app today. Take five minutes to test your chosen method by calling a friend. In a world where your phone number is a key to your digital identity, taking this small action can prevent spam, protect your location, and give you peace of mind with every you make.
Ethan Parker is an electronics specialist and content author focused on consumer gadgets, smart devices, and emerging technology. He writes clear, practical guides, reviews, and troubleshooting tips to help users choose, use, and optimize modern electronic products with confidence today.
