Introduction
In an age where digital footprints are more scrutinized than ever, the simple act of making a phone call can feel like a privacy minefield. You might wonder who sees your number, where it’s stored, and how you can maintain a degree of anonymity. For decades, the code star 67 has been a go-to for individuals seeking to make a private call, temporarily hiding their caller ID. But as technology rapidly evolves, a pressing question arises: does star 67 still work effectively in 2025?
The desire for call privacy isn’t new, but its importance has certainly grown. Whether you’re a business professional needing to make calls without revealing a direct line, an individual safeguarding personal information, or simply someone who prefers to manage their digital presence carefully, understanding your options is crucial. This comprehensive guide, brought to you by Teloz, delves deep into the current state of *67. We’ll explore its functionality, its persistent limitations, how it fares on modern devices like iPhones and Androids, and what factors, including carrier dependency, influence its effectiveness. Furthermore, we’ll look at common scenarios, alternatives, and how advanced communication solutions can offer more robust control over your call privacy.
What is *67 and How Was It Designed to Work?
Before dissecting its current relevance, let’s understand the foundation of *67. This keypad combination is a type of Vertical Service Code (VSC), which are special codes used by telephone subscribers to access specific network features. Other VSCs include *69 (last call return) or *70 (call waiting disabled).
The primary and original purpose of *67 was to enable per-call Caller ID blocking. When a caller dials *67 followed by the recipient’s phone number, the intention is that their calling number will not be displayed on the recipient’s caller ID device. Instead, the recipient might see “Private,” “Blocked,” “Unknown,” or a similar indicator. This feature was designed to give callers control over their information on a call-by-call basis, offering a simple way to hide phone number using *67 for occasional privacy.
Using it is straightforward:
- Open your phone’s dialer app.
- Enter *67.
- Immediately follow with the full phone number you wish to call (including the area code).
- Press the call button.
This sequence instructs the telephone network to suppress your Caller ID information for that specific outgoing call.
Does Star 67 Still Work in 2025? The Current Status
So, to the central question: does star 67 still work in this technologically advanced year of 2025? The general answer is yes, but with significant caveats and variations in effectiveness. While the fundamental mechanism of *67 remains supported by many telecommunication networks, its reliability isn’t absolute and depends heavily on several factors we’ll explore shortly.
Whether you’re using a traditional landline or a modern smartphone, the underlying principle is the same. Both iPhones and Android devices allow you to dial *67 directly from their native dialer applications. Star 67 on iPhone and star 67 on Android operate by sending this VSC to the network, just like any other dialed number sequence. The success isn’t typically device-dependent but rather network and recipient-dependent. For instance, some competitors note that the *67 effectiveness 2025 can vary, and while some assert it works broadly, the reality is more nuanced. The ability to block caller ID using *67 is not a guaranteed shield in all situations.
Key Factors Influencing *67’s Effectiveness
Understanding why *67 might not always work as expected is crucial. Its success isn’t solely in your hands; several external elements play a vital role.
Carrier Dependency: The Biggest Variable
Perhaps the most significant factor determining if star 67 will successfully block your number is your telephone service provider (carrier) and, to some extent, the recipient’s carrier. While most major carriers in North America (like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) and many others globally still support *67 as a standard feature, their implementation or specific policies can differ.
- Network Support: The feature must be active on the originating carrier’s network.
- Inter-Carrier Agreements: How calls are handled between different carriers can sometimes affect feature consistency.
- Service Plan Limitations: Rarely, some very basic or specialized service plans might have limitations on VSCs, though this is uncommon for *67.
At Teloz, we understand the importance of reliable network features. While we provide advanced tools for caller ID management in our business VoIP solutions, we also recognize users’ need for clarity on standard services like *67. The “carrier dependent” nature means your experience might differ from someone on another network.
Type of Number Called: Toll-Free, Businesses, Emergency Services
The destination of your call significantly impacts *67’s efficacy:
- Toll-Free Numbers (e.g., 800, 888, 877): Generally, does star 67 work when calling a toll-free number? The answer is often no. Toll-free numbers are paid for by the recipient, and they typically have a service called Automatic Number Identification (ANI) which often overrides per-call blocking attempts like *67. This allows businesses to identify callers for service and billing.
- Businesses: Many businesses, especially larger ones or those with sophisticated call centers, may use ANI or other advanced call logging systems. This means that even if you use *67, your number might still be captured by their internal systems, though it might not display on an individual agent’s caller ID screen. The question, can businesses see your number even with *67, leans towards “possibly, at a system level.”
- Emergency Services (911/999/112): This is a critical exception. *67 will NOT work and should NEVER be used when calling emergency services. Emergency dispatch systems are designed to receive caller location and number information to ensure rapid response, and privacy features like *67 are overridden for public safety.
- Certain Government Agencies or Specific Lines: Some official lines may also have systems that bypass caller ID blocking.
You May Also Know: Understanding Anonymous Phone Numbers
Recipient’s Caller ID Technology and Settings
The technology on the receiving end also plays a part:
- Standard Caller ID: For most residential lines or standard mobile caller ID services, *67, when supported by carriers, should display “Private” or “Blocked.”
- Anonymous Call Rejection: Many phone services offer a feature (often activated by dialing *77 or through settings) that automatically rejects calls from numbers that have blocked their caller ID. If the person you’re calling has this enabled, your *67 call won’t go through at all.
- Third-Party Apps: While mainstream caller ID apps primarily identify known spam or business numbers, there’s a common user question about “unmasking *67 calls.” Legitimate use of *67 as a network service is generally not “unmaskable” by standard third-party apps on the recipient’s phone. These apps identify numbers based on databases, not by circumventing network-level blocking. However, misinformation or scam apps might make false claims. True unmasking would typically require carrier-level intervention or law enforcement authority.
How to Use *67 on Different Devices (iPhone & Android)
Using *67 to make a private call with *67 is a simple process, regardless of whether you have an iPhone or an Android device.
For iPhone Users (Star 67 on iPhone):
- Open the Phone app (the green icon with a white telephone).
- Tap on the Keypad tab at the bottom.
- Dial *67.
- Without adding a space, immediately dial the full phone number you wish to call (e.g., *6715551234567).
- Tap the green call button.
Your call will be placed with your Caller ID information suppressed for that instance.
For Android Users (Star 67 on Android):
- Open your Phone or Dialer app (this icon varies by manufacturer but typically looks like a telephone receiver).
- Ensure you are on the keypad/dial pad screen.
- Dial *67.
- Without a space, immediately dial the full phone number (e.g., *6715551234567).
- Tap the call button (usually a green phone icon).
The process is virtually identical. It’s a network command, so the device merely acts as the input method. No special settings are usually required on the phone itself to use *67.
Limitations and What *67 Does NOT Do
While *67 offers a degree of privacy, its limitations are significant and often misunderstood. Understanding what are the limitations of using star 67 is key to managing expectations:
- Per-Call Basis Only: As highlighted by sources like USA Today, *67 blocks your number for only the single call you make immediately after dialing it. If you hang up and call back, even to the same number, you must dial *67 again. It is not a permanent caller ID block.
- No Anonymity from Your Phone Company: Your carrier will always know your number and the numbers you call. *67 only instructs the network to withhold your number from the recipient’s Caller ID display.
- Law Enforcement Access: In legal situations, such as those involving harassment or criminal investigations, law enforcement agencies can obtain call records from carriers through warrants or subpoenas, which would include your number even if *67 was used.
- Anonymous Call Rejection: If the recipient has activated Anonymous Call Rejection (ACR), your call will likely be blocked, and you may hear a message indicating this.
- Text Messages (SMS/MMS): *67 is purely for voice calls. It has no effect on text messages; your number will always be visible with standard SMS/MMS.
- Voicemail Identification: In some rare cases or with older systems, if your call goes to voicemail, the voicemail system itself might still log or announce your number. This is less common with modern systems.
For users needing more consistent or comprehensive privacy than what *67 offers, exploring alternatives becomes necessary. Teloz, for instance, provides business clients with sophisticated VoIP features that allow for more granular control over outbound caller ID presentation, which can be invaluable for maintaining privacy across multiple lines or for specific business functions. Our flexible pricing ensures businesses can access these advanced features.
Protect Your Call Privacy with Teloz Today
Worried about call privacy in 2025? Teloz offers secure VoIP solutions to keep your calls safe and your number private. Take control today.
Common Scenarios and Problems Users Face with *67
Users often encounter specific issues or have common questions regarding *67. Addressing these can clarify its practical use.
- Scenario 1: “I used *67, but they still saw my number!”
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- Possible Reasons: You might have called a toll-free number. Your carrier or the recipient’s carrier might have specific limitations. You might have forgotten to dial *67 before that specific call. Rarely, it could be a temporary network glitch.
- Solution: Double-check the type of number, confirm with your carrier if issues persist, and always ensure you dial *67 immediately before each desired private call.
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- Scenario 2: “Is it legal to use *67?”
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- Answer: Generally, yes. Using *67 for legitimate privacy reasons (e.g., protecting your personal number when calling a stranger or a business for a one-time query) is perfectly legal and an intended use of the VSC. However, using *67 to engage in harassment, threats, or other illegal activities is unlawful, and call records can be traced.
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- Scenario 3: “How can I permanently block my number for all outgoing calls?”
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- Solutions:
- Device Settings: Most smartphones (iPhone and Android) have a setting to hide your caller ID for all calls (e.g., on iPhone: Settings > Phone > Show My Caller ID; on Android: Phone app > Settings > Calls > Additional settings > Caller ID).
- Carrier Services: Some carriers offer permanent line blocking as a service you can request.
- Teloz Business Solutions: For businesses requiring consistent caller ID management, Teloz offers VoIP solutions where outbound caller ID can be set to a main company number, a specific department number, or even be anonymized based on configured rules, providing far more control than basic device settings.
- Solutions:
To better illustrate the differences, consider this comparison:
| Feature | *67 Per-Call Blocking | Permanent Blocking (Device/Carrier) | Teloz Advanced Privacy Features (Example) |
| Activation | Manual: Dial *67 before each call | One-time setting or carrier request | Admin panel configuration, user preferences |
| Scope | Single outgoing call | All outgoing calls from that line | Customizable per line, per user, or by rule |
| Flexibility | Low (all or nothing per call) | Low (all or nothing for the line) | High (e.g., show number to clients, hide for sales outreach) |
| Works with Toll-Free? | Typically No | Typically No | Can configure specific outbound IDs even for toll-free calls |
| Business Application | Limited, individual use | Basic, if all calls need blocking | Ideal for professional image, privacy, targeted campaigns |
| Cost Implication | Usually Free | Usually Free | Included with Teloz service plans (see our pricing details) |
| Best For | Occasional personal privacy | Consistent personal preference | Businesses needing control, professionals, advanced users |
This table clarifies that while *67 is a tool for occasional anonymity, more robust solutions are available for consistent or professional needs. How to tell if star 67 worked often relies on asking the recipient or testing with a friendly number, as there’s no direct confirmation to the caller.
Alternatives to *67 for Enhanced Call Privacy
Given the limitations of *67, many users seek more reliable or comprehensive alternatives to star 67 for hiding caller ID.
- Native Phone Settings (Global Block):
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- As mentioned, both iOS and Android allow you to block your caller ID for all outgoing calls through phone settings. This is a more “set it and forget it” approach but lacks per-call flexibility.
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- Carrier-Level Permanent Blocking:
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- Contacting your phone service provider might allow you to enable permanent caller ID blocking on your line.
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- VoIP Services with Caller ID Control (like Teloz):
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- Voice over IP (VoIP) services, especially those designed for businesses like Teloz, offer superior control over phone privacy settings. Features can include:
- Customizable Outbound Caller ID: Choose which number displays when making calls (e.g., a main business line, a department number, or even “Anonymous” where permissible).
- Number Masking/Anonymous Call Forwarding: Useful for businesses that want to protect the direct lines of their employees while still allowing call connections.
- Multiple Numbers on One Device: Use different virtual numbers for various purposes, each with its own caller ID setting.
- Enhanced Security: VoIP calls can be encrypted, offering a layer of security beyond traditional phone lines. Teloz empowers businesses to manage their telephonic identity professionally and securely, a far cry from the basic on/off nature of *67. This level of control is a cornerstone of modern business communication.
- Voice over IP (VoIP) services, especially those designed for businesses like Teloz, offer superior control over phone privacy settings. Features can include:
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- Third-Party Anonymous Calling Apps:
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- Various apps claim to provide anonymous calling, often by routing calls through their own servers or providing temporary “burner” numbers.
- Pros: Can offer flexibility, some provide temporary numbers.
- Cons: Reliability can vary greatly. Some may have associated costs (is star 67 free to use on cell phones? Yes, typically, but these apps often aren’t). Privacy policies of such apps should be scrutinized carefully – are they truly private, or are they collecting data?
When considering alternatives, it’s essential to weigh factors like reliability, cost, ease of use, and the level of privacy actually provided.
Conclusion
So, does *67 still work in 2025? Yes, for occasional private calls, but its reliability varies by carrier and call type, presenting clear limitations. Understanding these nuances is crucial for truly managing your call privacy effectively. While *67 offers a basic shield, it often falls short of modern demands for robust, flexible control over your communication identity. For individuals and especially businesses seeking dependable caller ID management and superior privacy, exploring advanced solutions is essential. Teloz provides these advanced VoIP features, offering far greater protection and versatile control. Discover comprehensive call privacy with Teloz Communication Solutions.
Upgrade Your Call Privacy – Try Teloz for Free
FAQs
Generally, yes. Is star 67 free to use on cell phones and landlines? Typically, it’s included as a basic feature in most phone service plans without additional charges. However, it’s always wise to confirm with your specific carrier if you have any doubts.
If *67 successfully blocked your number and displayed “Private” or “Unknown” on their Caller ID, then *69 would typically announce that the number is private and cannot be returned. They would need your actual number to call you back.
No. *67 is a Vertical Service Code exclusively for voice calls. It does not hide or block your phone number when sending text messages. Your number will be visible to the recipient of your texts.
For official guidance, a great resource is the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). You can learn more on their consumer guide page about Caller ID and Spoofing: https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/caller-id-and-spoofing. This link provides authoritative details on regulations and consumer rights.
If you are receiving harassing or threatening calls, it’s a serious matter. You should contact your local law enforcement agency. They can work with telephone companies to trace calls, even those made with Caller ID blocking, through legal processes. Additionally, organizations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) offer resources on dealing with online and telephonic harassment, which may provide further guidance (you can search their website eff.org for relevant advice).
