In the digital age, maintaining privacy has become increasingly challenging. When making phone calls, it’s often necessary to conceal your identity for various reasons. Fortunately, iPhones offer a range of features that allow you to make anonymous calls without compromising your privacy. This article will guide you through the various methods of making anonymous calls on your iPhone, empowering you to communicate confidentially and securely.
The simplest way to call anonymously on your iPhone is to use a caller ID blocking service. These services mask your phone number from the recipient, preventing them from identifying you. Several third-party apps, such as Burner and Hushed, provide caller ID blocking features. Once you’ve installed one of these apps, you can simply enter the recipient’s phone number and start calling. However, it’s important to note that some carriers may charge a fee for using caller ID blocking services.
Another method of making anonymous calls on your iPhone is to use a virtual phone number. Virtual phone numbers are not associated with your physical phone number, allowing you to keep your identity confidential. Several services, such as Google Voice and Skype, offer virtual phone numbers for a monthly fee. Once you’ve set up a virtual phone number, you can use it to make calls without revealing your real phone number. Additionally, virtual phone numbers often provide additional features, such as voicemail and call forwarding.
Disabling Caller ID on iPhone
Disabling Caller ID on your iPhone is a straightforward process that requires only a few simple steps. By following these steps, you can hide your phone number from the recipient of your call, ensuring that your identity remains unknown.
Here’s how to disable Caller ID on your iPhone:
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Open the Settings app:
On your iPhone’s home screen or in the App Library, locate and tap on the “Settings” icon. It’s typically represented by a gray gear symbol.
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Navigate to the “Phone” section:
Within the Settings app, scroll down and tap on the “Phone” option to access the settings related to your iPhone’s phone functionality.
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Find the “Show My Caller ID” setting:
Under the “Calls” section within the Phone settings, locate the option labeled “Show My Caller ID.” By default, this setting is enabled, allowing your phone number to be displayed to the recipients of your calls.
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Disable the “Show My Caller ID” setting:
Toggle the switch next to the “Show My Caller ID” option to turn it off. When the switch is in the off position, your Caller ID will be disabled, and your phone number will be hidden from the recipients of your calls.
By completing these steps, you can successfully disable Caller ID on your iPhone, ensuring that your phone number remains private and anonymous during outgoing calls.
It’s important to note that disabling Caller ID may not work for all calls in certain situations. Some carriers may impose restrictions or offer additional services that can override the default Caller ID settings on your iPhone. Additionally, some businesses or services may use caller ID verification systems that are unaffected by the iPhone’s Caller ID settings.
Using Burner Apps for Anonymous Calls
Burner apps allow you to create temporary phone numbers that can be used to make anonymous calls. These apps are typically free to download and use, and they provide a convenient way to make calls without revealing your real phone number. Here’s how to use burner apps to make anonymous calls on your iPhone:
- Download a burner app from the App Store. There are several different burner apps available, so you can choose one that fits your needs.
- Create a temporary phone number. Once you have downloaded a burner app, you will need to create a temporary phone number. This can typically be done by tapping on the “New Number” button in the app.
- Make an anonymous call. Once you have created a temporary phone number, you can start making anonymous calls. To do this, simply open the burner app and dial the number you want to call. The call will be made through the temporary phone number, so your real phone number will not be revealed.
Burner apps are a great way to make anonymous calls on your iPhone. They are easy to use and provide a convenient way to protect your privacy.
Popular Burner Apps for iPhone
| App | Features |
|---|---|
| Burner | Free to download and use, offers a variety of phone numbers to choose from, includes a voicemail feature |
| TextNow | Provides a free phone number and unlimited texting, offers in-app purchases for additional features |
| Hushed | Allows you to create multiple temporary phone numbers, offers a variety of subscription plans |
Employing VoIP Services for Anonymity
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services provide a convenient and cost-effective way to make phone calls anonymously. These services allow you to make calls over the internet, using a data connection instead of a traditional phone line. By using a VoIP service, you can hide your real phone number and make calls from any location with an internet connection.
There are several reputable VoIP services available, each offering varying features and levels of anonymity. Here’s a table comparing some popular options:
| Service | Features |
|---|---|
| Google Voice | Free, integrates with Gmail, limited number of calls per month |
| Skype | Free, video calling, instant messaging |
| Signal | End-to-end encryption, open source, no call history stored |
Choosing a VoIP Service
When selecting a VoIP service for anonymity, consider the following factors:
- Encryption: Look for services that offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your calls are secure from eavesdropping.
- Logging: Some services may log your call history or other information. Choose a service that has a strict no-logging policy to protect your privacy.
- Features: Determine what features are important to you, such as call forwarding, caller ID spoofing, or video calling.
- Cost: Compare the costs of different services and select one that fits your budget.
Using a VoIP Service Anonymously
To use a VoIP service anonymously, follow these steps:
- Create an account: Register for a VoIP account using a fake name or email address.
- Configure your device: Install the VoIP service’s app on your smartphone or computer.
- Make a call: Dial the number you want to call using the VoIP app’s interface. Your real phone number will be hidden.
Utilizing Call Forwarding to Mask Identity
Call forwarding is a feature that allows you to redirect incoming calls to another phone number. You can use this to mask your identity by forwarding calls to a disposable number or a VoIP service that provides anonymous calling. Here’s how to set up call forwarding on your iPhone:
1. Open the Phone app and tap on the “Contacts” tab.
2. Select the contact you want to forward calls from, then tap on the “Edit” button.
3. Scroll down to the “Call Forwarding” section and tap on the “Add Forwarding” button.
4. Enter the phone number you want to forward calls to, then tap on the “Done” button.
| Android | iOS |
|---|---|
| 1. Open the Phone app. | 1. Open the Settings app. |
| 2. Tap on the “Settings” icon. | 2. Tap on “Phone”. |
| 3. Scroll down to the “Call Forwarding” section. | 3. Tap on “Call Forwarding”. |
| 4. Tap on the “Enable call forwarding” checkbox. | 4. Tap on the “Forward to” field. |
| 5. Enter the phone number you want to forward calls to. | 5. Enter the phone number you want to forward calls to. |
| 6. Tap on the “OK” button. | 6. Tap on the “Save” button. |
Once you have set up call forwarding, all incoming calls to your iPhone will be forwarded to the number you specified. This will allow you to make anonymous calls without revealing your real phone number.
Masking Number Through Third-Party Services
Third-party services provide a convenient and versatile way to mask your phone number without the need for any special apps or configurations. These services typically operate through a web interface or mobile app, allowing you to specify the number you want to call from and the number you want to call anonymously.
Advantages of Using Third-Party Services
There are several advantages to using third-party services for anonymous calling:
- Convenience: No need to download or install any apps, simply use a web browser or mobile app.
- Versatility: Can be used to call from any device with internet access.
- Flexibility: Allows you to choose the number you want to call from and the number you want to call anonymously.
How to Use Third-Party Services
Using third-party services for anonymous calling is generally quite straightforward:
- Create an account with the service.
- Enter the number you want to call from (your caller ID) and the number you want to call anonymously.
- Select the desired privacy settings (e.g., block caller ID, hide your number).
- Initiate the call. The recipient will only see the number you specified as your caller ID.
- Manage your call history and settings within the service’s platform.
Recommended Third-Party Services
Here’s a table with some recommended third-party services for anonymous calling:
| Service | Features | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| SpoofCard | Virtual phone numbers, custom caller ID | Starts at $2.95/month |
| CoverMe | End-to-end encryption, voice distortion | Starts at $7.99/month |
| Hush | Disposable phone numbers, voicemail forwarding | Starts at $4.99/month |
Taking Advantage of Anonymizer Apps
Anonymizer apps provide a convenient way to make anonymous calls on your iPhone. These apps work by routing your calls through their servers, which hides your real phone number from the recipient. This can be useful for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Protecting your privacy
- Making prank calls
- Avoiding spam calls
There are a number of different anonymizer apps available for the iPhone. Some of the most popular options include:**
| App | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Burner | Unlimited anonymous calls and texts, voicemail, and call blocking | $4.99/month |
| Hushed | Multiple phone numbers, call forwarding, and voicemail | $1.99/month |
| TextNow | Free anonymous calls and texts, voicemail, and call blocking | In-app purchases for premium features |
When choosing an anonymizer app, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. Some apps offer more features than others, so it’s important to find one that meets your specific requirements. You should also consider the cost of the app, as some apps charge a monthly fee.
Blocking Caller ID on Specific Calls
Apple provides various ways to block caller ID on specific calls, allowing users to make anonymous calls or conceal their identities when contacting certain recipients. Here are the methods available on iPhone:
Disable Caller ID for Specific Contacts
Contacts can be individually excluded from caller ID display. To do this:
1. Open the “Contacts” app on your iPhone.
2. Select the contact you want to block caller ID for.
3. Tap “Edit” in the top-right corner.
4. Scroll down and tap “Phone.”
5. Under “Caller ID,” select “Show Caller ID” or “Hide Caller ID.”
Hide Caller ID for All Calls
You can also hide caller ID for all outgoing calls by enabling the “Hide My Caller ID” setting:
1. Go to “Settings” on your iPhone.
2. Tap “Phone.”
3. Scroll down and tap “Show My Caller ID.”
4. Toggle the switch off to hide your caller ID for all calls.
Temporarily Hide Caller ID Using Dial Codes
For temporary anonymity, you can use special dial codes before dialing a number:
| Dial Code | Effect |
|---|---|
| *67 | Hides caller ID for the current call only |
| #31# | Hides caller ID for international calls |
Note that dial codes may not work with all carriers or in all countries.
Exploiting Private Mode in iOS
Private Mode is a feature in iOS that allows you to browse the web without saving your history, cookies, or other data. This can be useful if you’re concerned about your privacy, or if you’re using a public computer.
However, Private Mode does not actually make your browsing anonymous. Your IP address and other identifying information can still be tracked by websites and your internet service provider. If you want to be truly anonymous online, you’ll need to use a VPN or other privacy tool.
Set Up Private Mode
To set up Private Mode, open Safari and tap the “New Tab” button in the lower-right corner. Then, tap the “Private” button in the upper-left corner.
Private Mode Features
Private Mode has a number of features that can help protect your privacy, including:
- Prevents websites from tracking your browsing history
- Deletes cookies and other data when you close the tab
- Disables autofill
- Blocks pop-ups and advertisements
Limitations of Private Mode
As mentioned above, Private Mode does not make your browsing anonymous. Your IP address and other identifying information can still be tracked by websites and your ISP.
Additionally, Private Mode does not protect you from malware or other security threats. If you’re concerned about your security, you should use a VPN or other privacy tool.
When to Use Private Mode
Private Mode is useful for a variety of situations, including:
- Browsing the web without saving your history
- Using a public computer
- Protecting your privacy from websites
- Blocking pop-ups and advertisements
Additional Privacy Measures
In addition to using Private Mode, there are a number of other steps you can take to protect your privacy online, including:
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a VPN | A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote server, making it more difficult for websites and your ISP to track your online activity. |
| Use a privacy-focused browser | Privacy-focused browsers like Firefox and Brave block tracking cookies and other privacy-invading features. |
| Disable JavaScript | JavaScript is a programming language that can be used to track your online activity. Disabling JavaScript can help protect your privacy. |
| Use a password manager | A password manager stores your passwords securely and helps you create strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. |
Using a Disposable Number for Privacy
To use a disposable number, you can sign up for a service that provides temporary phone numbers. These services typically allow you to generate a number that will forward calls to your real number. Once you have generated a disposable number, you can give it out to anyone you want to call anonymously. The calls will be forwarded to your real number, but the person you are calling will only see the disposable number. This can be useful for situations where you want to keep your real number private, such as when you are making a sales call or contacting a potential employer.
Disposable Number Services
There are a number of different disposable number services available. Some of the most popular services include:
| Service | Features | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Burner | Generate temporary numbers, forward calls and texts to your real number, set custom voicemail | Free for 3 numbers, $4.99 per month for unlimited numbers |
| Hushed | Generate temporary numbers, forward calls and texts to your real number, set custom voicemail, use for international calls | $1.99 per month for 3 numbers, $7.99 per month for unlimited numbers |
| CoverMe | Generate temporary numbers, forward calls and texts to your real number, set custom voicemail, use for international calls, send encrypted messages | $3.99 per month for 3 numbers, $7.99 per month for unlimited numbers |
How to Use a Disposable Number
To use a disposable number, simply sign up for a service and generate a number. Once you have generated a number, you can give it out to anyone you want to call anonymously. The calls will be forwarded to your real number, but the person you are calling will only see the disposable number.
Benefits of Using a Disposable Number
There are a number of benefits to using a disposable number. These benefits include:
- Privacy: Disposable numbers can help you keep your real number private, which can be useful for situations where you want to avoid unwanted calls or messages.
- Anonymity: Disposable numbers can help you remain anonymous when making calls, which can be useful for situations where you want to avoid being identified.
- Convenience: Disposable numbers can be convenient, as they allow you to generate a new number quickly and easily without having to go through a lengthy sign-up process.
Leveraging VPNs for Enhanced Anonymity
VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) offer a secure and anonymous way to make phone calls by disguising your IP address. Here are the key benefits:
- Encryption: VPNs encrypt your data, making it impossible for third parties to intercept or track your calls.
- IP Masking: VPNs hide your real IP address and replace it with a temporary one, preventing anyone from identifying your location.
- Access to Restricted Numbers: Some VPNs allow you to access international and restricted numbers that may be blocked in your country.
Step-by-Step Guide to using a VPN for Anonymous Calls
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Subscribe to a reputable VPN service. |
| 2 | Download and install the VPN app on your iPhone. |
| 3 | Choose a server location that supports anonymous calling. |
| 4 | Connect to the VPN server. |
| 5 | Use any phone app or VoIP service to make anonymous calls. |
Recommended VPN Services for Anonymous Calls
- ExpressVPN
- NordVPN
- CyberGhost
- IPVanish
- Private Internet Access
How to Call Anonymously on iPhone
Making an anonymous phone call can be useful for various reasons, such as protecting your privacy, avoiding solicitation calls, or surprising someone. iPhones offer several methods to achieve anonymous calling.
Method 1: Use *67
Dial *67 before the phone number you wish to call. This method temporarily hides your caller ID from the recipient’s phone. Note that some carriers may charge a fee for this service.
Method 2: Use a Burner App
Install a burner app, such as Burner or Hushed, from the App Store. These apps provide temporary phone numbers that you can use to make anonymous calls.
Method 3: Use a VoIP Service
Sign up for a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service, such as Skype or Google Voice. These services allow you to make calls using an internet connection instead of your cellular network, providing anonymity.
Method 4: Use a Public Phone
Locate a public payphone and use cash or a calling card to make an anonymous call. Public phones do not require personal identification, ensuring anonymity.
People Also Ask
Can I hide my phone number for one call only?
Yes, you can use the *67 code before the phone number to hide your caller ID for a single call.
Is it illegal to call anonymously?
Is it illegal to call anonymously?
No, making anonymous phone calls is generally not illegal in most countries. However, it is important to use this feature responsibly and avoid harassment or illegal activities.
