Introduction
In an era of constant connectivity, the ability to manage who sees your phone number has become more pertinent than ever. For decades, the simple code *67 served as a quick dial-up solution for per-call caller ID blocking. But as telecommunication technology evolves at a breakneck pace, many wonder: does star 67 still work effectively in 2025?
This comprehensive guide will delve into the enduring relevance of *67, explore its functionality on modern devices like iPhones and Androids, and critically examine its limitations. Furthermore, we will uncover advanced alternatives, including sophisticated VoIP solutions like those offered by My Country Mobile, designed to provide robust control over your call privacy in today’s complex digital landscape.
What Exactly is *67? A Quick Refresher
Before we assess its current utility, it’s essential to understand the foundation of *67. This code is a type of Vertical Service Code (VSC), which are special key sequences dialed on a telephone to activate or deactivate specific network features. *67 was traditionally introduced for landline telephones, offering users a straightforward method to make an outgoing call without revealing their phone number to the recipient on that specific call.
The primary purpose of *67 was to provide a layer of temporary anonymity. By dialing *67 followed by the destination phone number, the caller’s network would be instructed to mark the call as “private,” “anonymous,” or “restricted” on the recipient’s caller ID display. This allowed individuals to protect their personal numbers in various situations, from casual inquiries to avoiding unwanted return calls.
How Does *67 Aim to Hide Your Caller ID?
The mechanism behind *67 involves signaling within the telecommunications network. When you dial *67 before a number, your telephone service provider’s switch interprets this code as a request to withhold your Calling Line Identification (CLI) information for that particular call. Instead of transmitting your actual phone number, the network sends a privacy indicator to the recipient’s carrier.
This privacy indicator typically results in the recipient’s caller ID displaying a generic message like “Private Number,” “Anonymous,” “Unknown Caller,” or “Restricted.” The intended outcome is simple: the person you are calling cannot see your phone number, thereby preserving your privacy for that interaction. This was particularly useful before the widespread adoption of more granular privacy settings on mobile devices.
The Big Question: Does *67 Still Work in 2025?
The straightforward answer is: yes, *67 can still work in 2025, but its reliability and effectiveness are significantly more nuanced and conditional than in the past. Several factors now influence whether dialing *67 will successfully hide your caller ID. These include the type of service you’re using (landline vs. mobile), your specific carrier’s policies, the recipient’s phone service and settings, and the nature of the number you are calling.
For instance, while many landline services and some mobile carriers continue to support *67 functionality, its success can be undermined by advanced call filtering technologies, recipient-side anonymous call rejection services, or specific network configurations. Furthermore, the rise of Voice over IP (VoIP) and sophisticated business phone systems means that traditional methods of caller ID blocking are not always foolproof. The implementation of STIR/SHAKEN protocols, aimed at combating illegal call spoofing, also indirectly impacts how “private” calls are handled and perceived by networks and receiving devices.
How to Use *67: A Step-by-Step Guide
Despite its limitations, knowing how to use *67 can still be useful. The method is generally consistent across different types of phones, primarily involving prefixing the destination number with the code.
Using *67 on Landlines
For traditional landline phones, using *67 remains the most straightforward:
- Pick up the receiver and listen for a dial tone.
- Dial *67.
- Immediately dial the full phone number you wish to call, including the area code.
- The call will be placed with your caller ID information suppressed, subject to the limitations discussed.
Using *67 on iPhones
For iPhone users, the dialing method for *67 is similar to landlines for a per-call block:
- Open the Phone app.
- Go to the Keypad.
- Dial *67 followed by the phone number you want to call (e.g., *67-123-456-7890).
- Tap the call button.
iPhones also offer a built-in setting to block your caller ID for all outgoing calls. You can typically find this under Settings > Phone > Show My Caller ID. For official, device-specific instructions, it’s always best to consult Apple Support.
Using *67 on Android Phones
Android users can also use *67 for per-call anonymity:
- Open your Phone app.
- Access the dialer/keypad.
- Enter *67 followed by the complete phone number (e.g., *67-123-456-7890).
- Press the call button.
Similar to iPhones, Android devices usually have a system-level setting to hide your caller ID for all calls. This is often located in the Phone app’s settings, under “Calling accounts,” “Supplementary services,” or “Caller ID.” For the most accurate steps for your specific device and Android version, checking Android Help resources is recommended.
Important Considerations When Using *67
Regardless of the device, remember these key points:
- Per-Call Basis: *67 is designed to work for a single call at a time. You must dial it before each call for which you want to block your ID.
- No Absolute Guarantee: As highlighted, its effectiveness is not guaranteed. Several factors can prevent your number from being hidden.
- Legitimate Use: Only use *67 for legitimate privacy reasons. Misusing it for harassment or illegal activities can have serious consequences.
Common Scenarios Where *67 Might Fail (And Why)
Understanding the limitations of *67 is crucial for managing your call privacy expectations. There are several common scenarios where this traditional method is likely to be ineffective:
- Calling Toll-Free Numbers: When you dial toll-free numbers (such as 800, 888, 877, etc.), *67 is generally overridden. These businesses often use Automatic Number Identification (ANI) technology, which captures your number for billing and service purposes, irrespective of *67.
- Calling Emergency Services (e.g., 911, 112): For public safety, *67 is always bypassed when calling emergency services. Your location and phone number are made available to dispatchers to ensure a rapid response.
- Calling Businesses with Advanced Call Systems: Many businesses now employ sophisticated phone systems, CRMs, and call analytics tools that can sometimes identify incoming numbers even if *67 is used. This is particularly true for sales or customer service lines designed to track interactions.
- Recipient Using Anonymous Call Rejection: Some phone users activate features that automatically block or reject calls from numbers marked as “Anonymous” or “Private.” If the person you’re calling has this feature enabled, your call may not go through.
- Carrier-Level Overrides or Lack of Full Support: While many carriers support the *67 feature, its implementation can vary. Some carriers might have policies or technical limitations that affect its reliability, especially across different networks or for certain types of accounts.
- Regional Differences & Regulations: Telecommunication regulations regarding caller ID presentation and blocking can vary by country and region. Official bodies like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the U.S. provide guidelines, but cross-border calls can add complexity.
These scenarios underscore the need for more robust and predictable privacy solutions in many modern communication contexts.
Beyond *67: Modern Alternatives for Caller ID Privacy
Given the inconsistencies of *67, users seeking reliable caller ID privacy have several modern alternatives to consider. These options often provide greater control, more features, and better predictability.
Built-in Smartphone Settings
As mentioned earlier, both iOS and Android devices offer settings to disable outgoing Caller ID for all calls.
- Pros: This is a free and relatively simple solution that doesn’t require dialing a prefix for every call.
- Cons: The effectiveness can still be carrier-dependent, and it applies to all calls, which may not be desirable if you want to show your ID for some calls but not others without constantly toggling the setting. It also doesn’t offer additional features like choosing a different outgoing number.
VoIP Services and Virtual Phone Numbers
Voice over IP (VoIP) services represent a significant step up in call privacy and management. Companies like My Country Mobile offer comprehensive VoIP solutions that put users firmly in control of their caller ID presentation.
- How VoIP Enhances Privacy: VoIP services operate over the internet, allowing for more flexible number management. Users can often choose virtual phone numbers (local, international, or toll-free) that are not directly tied to their physical SIM card or landline.
- My Country Mobile Features:
- Multiple Numbers: Obtain and manage several virtual numbers through a single interface. This allows you to use different numbers for business, personal use, or specific projects, enhancing privacy and organization.
- Customizable Caller ID: Configure how your caller ID appears for outgoing calls. You can choose to display one of your virtual numbers, withhold your ID entirely (where supported and appropriate), or display a generic business name.
- Enhanced Privacy: Separate your primary personal number from public-facing communications, reducing unwanted calls and maintaining a professional image.
- Advanced Call Management: Benefit from features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, auto-attendant, and call analytics, which are often bundled with VoIP services.
- Benefit: These services are ideal for freelancers, small businesses, and anyone needing to maintain a professional presence while safeguarding personal contact details. The flexibility offered by such platforms often comes with various plans, and it’s advisable to check My Country Mobile’s pricing to find a solution that fits your specific needs and budget.
Burner Phone Apps
Burner apps provide temporary, disposable phone numbers that can be used for calls and texts.
- Pros: Excellent for short-term privacy needs, such as online registrations, temporary projects, or situations where you don’t want to reveal your real number.
- Cons: These services usually involve a subscription or per-number cost. The numbers are often recycled, which can sometimes lead to receiving calls or texts intended for previous users. They are not typically suited for establishing a long-term, stable business presence.
Google Voice
Google Voice offers a free phone number (in supported regions) that can be used for calls, texts, and voicemail.
- Pros: It’s a free service that can mask your primary phone number. It offers features like voicemail transcription and call screening.
- Cons: It requires a Google account, and its features and availability can be limited depending on your region. For business use, it may lack the advanced features and dedicated support of professional VoIP services.
Carrier-Specific Privacy Tools
Some mobile and landline carriers offer their own premium caller ID management services. These might include more robust blocking options or features to display a custom name ID.
- Pros: Integrated directly with your existing carrier service.
- Cons: Usually come at an additional monthly cost and may not be as feature-rich or flexible as third-party VoIP solutions.
Choosing the right alternative depends on your specific privacy requirements, call volume, budget, and whether you need additional communication features.
Comparing Your Privacy Options: *67 vs. Modern Solutions
To better illustrate the differences, here’s a comparison table highlighting key aspects of *67 and its modern alternatives:
Feature | *67 | Built-in Smartphone Settings | VoIP (e.g., My Country Mobile) | Burner Apps | Google Voice |
Primary Function | Per-call Caller ID block | All-call Caller ID block/show | Comprehensive call & ID management | Temporary, disposable numbers | Secondary number, call management |
Effectiveness | Variable, often low | Variable, carrier-dependent | High, more predictable | Generally effective for the app | Moderate to High |
Cost | Free | Free | Subscription-based (various tiers) | Subscription or per-use | Free |
Ease of Use | Simple prefix dialing | Simple toggle in settings | User-friendly dashboard/app | App-based, generally easy | App/Web interface |
Reliability | Low to Moderate | Moderate | High | Moderate (number recycling) | Moderate to High |
Additional Features | None | None | Multiple numbers, call routing, analytics, voicemail-to-email, etc. | Texting, sometimes voicemail | Voicemail, transcription, text |
Best For | Occasional, low-stakes privacy | Basic, all-or-nothing privacy | Business, professional, robust privacy | Short-term, anonymous tasks | Personal secondary number |
This table underscores that while *67 is a quick, free option, its limitations in effectiveness and reliability make modern solutions, particularly comprehensive VoIP services, a more attractive choice for consistent and professional call privacy.
The Rise of Enhanced Call Verification: STIR/SHAKEN and Its Impact
A significant development in the telecommunications landscape is the implementation of STIR/SHAKEN (Secure Telephony Identity Revisited / Signature-based Handling of Asserted information using toKENs) protocols. These are designed to combat illegal caller ID spoofing, which is a common tactic used in robocalls and scam calls.
STIR/SHAKEN works by having originating service providers digitally “sign” calls to verify that the caller ID information is legitimate and hasn’t been tampered with. Receiving service providers then check this signature to confirm the call’s authenticity. While primarily aimed at reducing fraudulent calls, this framework has an indirect impact on how all calls, including those with withheld caller IDs, are perceived by the network and by end-user applications.
Calls that are marked as “private” or “anonymous” using methods like *67 might, in some cases, be treated with greater suspicion by increasingly sophisticated spam filters or carrier algorithms. This is because scammers sometimes attempt to hide their identities. Consequently, legitimate calls made with a hidden ID could potentially face a higher chance of being blocked or sent directly to voicemail by the recipient’s service or app.
Legitimate VoIP providers, such as My Country Mobile, operate within these regulatory frameworks. They strive to ensure high call deliverability for their users while still offering robust tools for managing caller ID presentation in a compliant manner. This often means providing clearer, verifiable caller ID options for businesses that choose to display their number, and more reliable methods for withholding ID when appropriate, without triggering widespread spam flags.
My Country Mobile: Advanced Solutions for Call Privacy and Management
For individuals and businesses seeking more than the hit-or-miss privacy of *67, My Country Mobile offers a suite of advanced communication solutions designed for control, professionalism, and reliability. Our platform moves beyond basic ID blocking, providing a comprehensive toolkit for managing how your calls are presented and received.
Key features that enhance your call privacy include:
- Virtual Phone Numbers: Acquire local, toll-free, or even international virtual numbers. Use these numbers for your business communications, keeping your personal number entirely private. This is invaluable for maintaining a work-life balance and presenting a professional image. You can select numbers that align with your target markets or business identity.
- Customizable Caller ID Management: With My Country Mobile, you gain granular control over your outgoing caller ID. For business lines, you can choose to display your verified business virtual number, ensuring customers recognize your calls. For situations requiring discretion, you can explore options to withhold your ID, all managed through an intuitive interface.
- Anonymous Call Rejection (Inbound Feature): While focusing on outbound privacy, it’s also important to manage incoming calls. Our platform can include features like anonymous call rejection, allowing you to automatically block calls that come in with no caller ID, reducing unwanted solicitations.
- Secure Communications: We prioritize the security of your communications. Our VoIP services often utilize encryption (where applicable and supported) to protect the content of your calls, adding another layer of privacy beyond just your phone number.
- Enhanced Call Deliverability: By using legitimate, verified virtual numbers through a reputable provider, your business calls are less likely to be erroneously flagged as spam compared to persistently using generic “private number” methods.
The flexibility and advanced features offered by My Country Mobile empower users to handle their communications effectively and privately. When considering such a robust solution, understanding the price points for different feature sets is important. We offer various plans designed to meet diverse needs, ensuring you can find a cost-effective way to upgrade your call privacy and overall communication strategy.
Common User Problems & Solutions with Caller ID Blocking
Users attempting to manage their caller ID often encounter a few common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them, and where solutions like My Country Mobile can help:
- Problem: “*67 doesn’t work when I call a specific contact.
- Possible Causes & Solutions: The contact might have an anonymous call rejection service enabled on their phone or through their carrier. Alternatively, if the number is a business or toll-free line, *67 is often bypassed. For critical calls where privacy is needed, consider using a virtual number from a service like My Country Mobile, which offers more predictable caller ID control.
- Problem: “I want to block my Caller ID for all calls, not just one at a time.”
- Possible Causes & Solutions: Relying on *67 for every call is cumbersome. You can enable the “Hide My Caller ID” feature in your iPhone or Android settings for a blanket approach. However, for more flexible and professional control, especially for business purposes, a VoIP service allows you to manage caller ID settings for specific virtual numbers without affecting your primary mobile line.
- Problem: “My calls marked as ‘private’ using *67 or phone settings are frequently flagged as spam or ignored.”
- Possible Causes & Solutions: Due to the prevalence of spam calls, many people and automated systems are wary of calls from “Unknown” or “Private” numbers. STIR/SHAKEN protocols may also lead to stricter filtering. Using a dedicated virtual business number from a reputable provider like My Country Mobile establishes a more legitimate call identity, improving answer rates. While there’s a cost associated, our price for such enhanced services often translates to better business outcomes and reduced frustration.
- Problem: “Are there any legal implications if I hide my caller ID?”
- Possible Causes & Solutions: In most jurisdictions, including the U.S., it is legal to block your caller ID for legitimate privacy reasons. However, it is illegal to do so with the intent to defraud, cause harm, or harass. The FCC provides clear guidelines on this. Always ensure you are using privacy tools responsibly.
The Future of Call Anonymity: Trends and Predictions
The landscape of call anonymity and privacy is continually evolving. We are observing several key trends that will shape how individuals and businesses manage their caller identity in the coming years:
- Increasing Sophistication of Call Filtering: Expect call identification and spam-filtering technologies to become even more advanced. AI and machine learning will play a larger role in distinguishing legitimate calls from unwanted ones, potentially making it harder for generically hidden numbers to get through.
- Greater Demand for Legitimate Privacy Tools: As awareness of data privacy grows, both consumers and businesses will seek more robust and transparent tools to control their digital footprint, including their caller ID. This demand will drive innovation in the VoIP and communication platform sectors.
- Enhanced Regulatory Scrutiny: Regulatory bodies worldwide will likely continue to refine rules around caller ID, spoofing, and robocalls to protect consumers, which may place more responsibility on service providers to ensure the authenticity of call origins.
- The Balance Between Privacy and Trust: The industry will continue to grapple with balancing the individual’s right to privacy against the need for trust and security in communications. Verified caller identities for businesses may become even more crucial for establishing credibility.
Services like My Country Mobile are proactively adapting to these trends by investing in compliant, feature-rich platforms. We aim to provide solutions that offer users genuine privacy and control while aligning with industry best practices for call authentication and security, ensuring your communications are both private and effectively delivered. This forward-looking approach means that even as technology changes, our commitment to providing manageable and fair pricing for these essential services remains.
Conclusion
While the venerable *67 code offers diminishing per-call anonymity in 2025’s advanced telecom landscape, its reliability is often compromised by modern carrier features and anti-spam technologies like STIR/SHAKEN. For robust, professional control over caller ID and comprehensive call privacy, superior alternatives like VoIP services from My Country Mobile provide feature-rich tools including virtual numbers and customizable settings. These solutions empower users to safeguard privacy, enhance their professional image, and streamline communications in ways *67 cannot match. Ready for predictable results and full control? Explore My Country Mobile’s innovative communication solutions today and discover a smarter way to connect!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Is using *67 free?
Yes, typically using *67 to block your caller ID on a per-call basis is a free feature provided by most telephone service carriers. There is usually no extra charge for using this specific code.
Can calls made using *67 be traced?
While *67 hides your number from the recipient’s caller ID display, the call is not truly untraceable. Telephone carriers and law enforcement agencies can typically trace the origin of calls, including those made with *67, if there is a legitimate legal or safety reason to do so (e.g., in cases of harassment or emergency situations).
Does *67 work for international calls?
The functionality of *67 for international calls is highly unreliable and generally not supported. Caller ID presentation and blocking for international calls depend on complex agreements and technical compatibility between carriers in different countries. It’s best to assume *67 will not work for international dialing.
What is a better alternative to *67 for business calls?
For business calls, using a professional VoIP service like My Country Mobile is a significantly better alternative. These services allow you to use dedicated virtual business numbers, manage your outgoing caller ID consistently, access advanced call features (like auto-attendant and call routing), and maintain a more professional image than relying on the inconsistent *67 code.
Where can I find official information on caller ID regulations in the U.S.?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the primary regulatory body for telecommunications in the United States. Their official website provides comprehensive consumer guides and information on caller ID, call blocking, and rules against malicious spoofing. You can visit the FCC’s page on Caller ID and Spoofing for authoritative details.
