Once upon a time, it took multiple devices, software, and/or programs to accomplish what a lot of us can now do with just our smartphones. 

You no longer need photo editing software to remove the background of a photo, a book to identify a plant, or to dial *67 to make a call with your number blocked. All of this can be done on that little device tucked in your pocket.

Many of these built-in features are also super easy to use (much easier than flipping through a book to get lucky) and can be activated with just a few taps. 

Watch this video to see how to block your number when making a phone call. 

How to block your number when calling someone

The next time you want to make a call without your number showing up, just activate the feature on your smartphone. 

To hide your number on an iPhone: 

1. Go to Settings
2. Scroll down to Phone
3. Tap Show My Caller ID
4. Toggle the feature off

To hide your number on an Android: 

1. Go to the Phone app
2. Tap on Settings
3. Tap Calling Accounts
4. Tap on your SIM card (or, if you have multiple, the SIM of the number you want to hide)
5. Tap Advanced Settings
6. Tap Caller ID 
7. Select Hide number

If you don't see the option in the menu, it likely means your carrier does not support the feature. 

Other ways to block your number 

The classic option of dialing *67 before the number you’re calling still works. This only blocks the call you’re making at that moment, not any future calls. 

There are also a number of burner apps you can use to contact people without providing your actual number. Some of these apps require payment, but others, like Google Voice, are free.  

To hide your number on Google Voice:

1. Open the Google Voice app
2. Click on the Menu
3. Go to Settings
4. Go to Calls
5. Toggle on Anonymous caller ID 

Hiding your number conceals it from everyone, including friends, family, and coworkers who have your number saved on their device, so there is a chance the call might go unanswered.

There is also a chance the call will be sent directly to voicemail if the recipient uses a spam-blocking service.

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Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.  

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• The best rugged iPhone case: Spigen Slim Armor 
• A top wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger 
• Our favorite screen protector: Ailun Glass Screen Protector 
• The best portable battery pack: Mophie Powerstation Plus 
• Durable phone car holders: Beam Electronics Phone Holder 
• An iPhone tripod we love: Aureday Phone Tripod 
• The best lightning cable: Anker 6 ft Premium Double-Braided Nylon Lightning Cable 

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