In an age where our phone numbers are linked to everything from banking to social media, the ability to control who sees your caller ID has never been more critical. Whether you are a real estate agent contacting potential buyers, a freelancer reaching out to new clients, or simply someone who values their privacy, knowing how to block your cell phone number is an essential digital skill. Every you make a, your number is as data, and without the right precautions, that information becomes visible to the person on the other end.
This guide will walk you through every method available in 2026 to block your number, from universal carrier codes to smartphone settings and third-party apps. You will learn the permanent and temporary solutions for both iPhone and Android devices, understand the legal landscape surrounding caller ID spoofing, and discover how to handle situations where you need to unblock your number for specific calls. By the end of this article, you have a complete toolkit to protect your privacy on every call you make.
The Universal Per-C Code: *67 and Its Alternatives
The simplest and most widely known method for blocking your number on a single call is the 67 prefix. This code has been a staple of the telephone system for decades and remains fully functional in 2026 across all major US carriers, including, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Spectrum. 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 will see "Blocked," "," or "No Caller ID" on their screen instead of your actual number.
It is important to note that 67 only works for voice calls and does not apply to text messages. Additionally, this method will not work for toll-free numbers (800, 888, 877, etc.) or emergency services like 911. Some businesses and government agencies also have systems that automatically reject blocked calls, so your call may not go through. In 2026, with the widespread adoption of STIR/SHAKEN protocols to combat robocalls, some carriers have begun to flag 67 calls as potentially suspicious, though the code itself remains legal and functional for legitimate privacy use.
For international calls, the equivalent code varies by country. In the United Kingdom, you would dial 141 before the number. In Canada, 67 works the same as in the US. If you are traveling abroad in 2026, check with your local carrier for the correct prefix. A practical tip: save 67 as a contact in your phone under a name like "Blocked Call" so you can quickly copy paste it when needed, rather than memorizing the sequence every time.
Daniel Mitchell is a home appliances specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience testing, reviewing, and comparing everyday household products. He focuses on helping homeowners make smarter buying decisions through practical insights, real-world testing, and easy-to-understand advice. Daniel covers everything from kitchen appliances to smart home solutions, with a strong emphasis on performance, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability.
