Do you ever find yourself in a situation where you want to make a call but maintain your privacy? Perhaps there’s a need to protect your identity, or you want to surprise someone without revealing your phone number. Whatever the reason may be, the mystery of making private calls on an iPhone can now be unraveled.
1. Introduction to Private Calls on iPhone
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of making private calls, let’s first understand what it entails. Making a private call means hiding your phone number from the recipient’s caller ID. This helps to protect your privacy and ensuring that your number isn’t stored by the person you called.
2. Use *67 Before Dialing
If you want to make a single private call on your iPhone, the easiest method is to use the *67 prefix before dialing the recipient’s number. By adding *67, you temporarily disable your caller ID for that specific call, ensuring your phone number remains private.
3. Setting Up a Permanent Solution
If your preference is to keep your caller ID hidden continuously, you can set up a permanent private calling solution on your iPhone.
3.1. Change Caller ID in Settings
The first method involves changing your Caller ID settings. By going to “Settings,” then “Phone,” and finally selecting “Show My Caller ID,” you can toggle off the option. Keep in mind that this change affects all your outgoing calls, not just a specific number or contact.
3.2. Use a Third-Party App
Another option is to use a third-party app that allows you to make private calls while retaining your original phone number. Apps such as Secret Calls, CoverMe, and Burner can assist you in achieving this privacy. These apps allow you to choose when to appear as a private caller and when to show your actual number.
4. Call Using a Third-Party Service
If the above methods don’t meet your requirements, there are services available that let you make private calls via their network. These services, like Google Voice or Skype, provide an intermediary that masks your number, ensuring your privacy while making calls.
5. Blocking Caller ID for a Single Call
If you only wish to disguise your phone number once in a while, you can do so manually when making a call.
5.1. Prefix *67 Before Dialing
Similar to the method outlined in section 2, you can use the *67 prefix before dialing the recipient’s number. Remember to include it each time you desire to hide your caller ID for an individual call.
5.2. Hide Caller ID from Contact Card
Another way to call someone privately is by hiding your caller ID directly from your contact information. Open the Phone app, select “Contacts,” find the relevant contact, tap “Edit,” scroll down, and choose “Hide Caller ID.” This feature allows you to hide your number for a particular contact without altering your general caller ID settings.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Q: Can I unblock my caller ID for specific contacts?
A: Absolutely! You can unblock your caller ID for specific contacts by following the steps listed in section 5.2.
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Q: Will the person I’m calling be aware that I’m using a private number?
A: When you call someone privately, your phone number won’t appear on their caller ID. However, they may see a general “Unknown” or “Private Number” message, depending on their device and carrier.
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Q: Can I make international private calls using these methods?
A: The methods mentioned in this guide work for any type of call, whether it’s local or international.
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Q: Can I reverse the permanent private calling solution?
A: Certainly! You can follow the steps shared in section 3.1 to revert your caller ID settings back to normal.
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Q: Are there any additional costs associated with using third-party services or apps?
A: Many third-party services and apps offer both free and paid options. It’s important to review the terms and conditions to determine if any charges apply.
With this comprehensive guide, you now possess the knowledge to call someone privately on your iPhone. Whether you decide to use the temporary *67 prefix, alter your Caller ID settings, utilize third-party apps, or opt for services like Google Voice, you can now make calls while safeguarding your privacy effectively! Remember to consider your requirements before selecting the most suitable method for you.