How to Call Someone Privately: A Guide to Anonymous Calling

Introduction

Have you ever needed to call someone but didn’t want them to have your phone number? Maybe you’re trying to contact someone who has been harassing you or you’re a journalist trying to protect your sources. Whatever the reason, anonymous calling can be a useful tool. In this article, we will explore different methods for anonymous calling and their benefits/limitations.

Using a Private Number

One way to make anonymous calls is by using a private number. A private number is a feature that allows you to hide your phone number when making calls. It works by adding *67 before the phone number you are calling.

The benefits of using a private number are that it’s free, doesn’t require any third-party apps, and is available on most phones. However, the limitations are that some people may not answer calls from private numbers, and it doesn’t provide complete anonymity since the phone company can still track the call.

To enable the private number feature:

iPhone

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap on the Keypad tab.
3. Type in *67 before the phone number you want to call.
4. Hit the Call button.

Android

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap on the three dots in the top right corner.
3. Select Settings.
4. Scroll down and select Calling accounts.
5. Select your carrier.
6. Turn on the option for Additional settings.
7. Select Caller ID.
8. Select Hide number.

Using *67

Another way to make anonymous calls is by using *67. This feature works similarly to using a private number, but instead of enabling it in your phone settings, you add *67 before the phone number you are calling.

The benefits of using *67 are that it’s free and doesn’t require any third-party apps. However, the limitations are that some people may not answer calls from unknown numbers, and it doesn’t provide complete anonymity since the phone company can still track the call.

To use *67:

1. Open your phone app.
2. Type in *67 before the phone number you want to call.
3. Hit the Call button.

Third-Party Apps

If you’re looking for a more comprehensive solution, you can use third-party apps for anonymous calling. These apps work by routing your call through their servers, so the recipient sees a different phone number than yours. Some popular third-party apps include Burner, Hushed, and CoverMe.

The benefits of using third-party apps are that they provide more comprehensive anonymity, and you can often choose a specific phone number to appear on the recipient’s phone. The limitations are that they usually require a paid subscription, and not all apps are created equal.

Here are brief descriptions of some popular third-party apps:

• Burner – lets you create temporary phone numbers that can be disposed of after use.
• Hushed – lets you choose from a list of numbers in different countries and enables you to send and receive messages as well as make calls.
• CoverMe – offers encrypted messaging and calls in addition to anonymous calling.

Disposable Phone Numbers

Disposable phone numbers are another way to make anonymous calls. These phone numbers are temporary and can be disposed of after their use, making them a good option for people who don’t want to commit to a subscription service. Some popular apps and websites that offer disposable phone numbers include TextNow, Google Voice, and MySudo.

The benefits of using disposable phone numbers are that they provide complete anonymity and are often free to use. However, the limitations are that some services may not be available in all countries, and they may not be as reliable as other methods of anonymous calling.

Call From a Landline

If you don’t have access to a private number feature or third-party app, you can always use a landline for anonymous calling. Landlines don’t transmit caller ID information unless the caller pays extra for that service, so it’s an easy way to make an anonymous call.

To use a landline for anonymous calling, simply dial *67 before the phone number you want to call.

Pay-As-You-Go Phones

Pay-as-you-go phones are another option for anonymous calling. These phones don’t require a contract and don’t require your personal information to purchase. They can be found at most phone retailers and are a good option for people who need anonymity for a short period.

The benefits of using pay-as-you-go phones are that they provide anonymity and don’t require a contract. However, the limitations are that they require purchasing a new phone and going through the setup process, and they can be more expensive than other options.

Your best bet is to purchase a phone with cash and use a temporary phone number when setting it up.

Conclusion

There are several ways to make anonymous calls, each with their own benefits and limitations. If you’re looking for a simple and free option, using a private number or *67 may be the best option. If you need more comprehensive anonymity, third-party apps, disposable phone numbers, or landlines may be a better option. Pay-as-you-go phones are more expensive but are a good option for those who need anonymity for a short period. Ultimately, the method you choose will depend on your needs and preferences.