Introduction
Even as communication methods diversify, the directness of a phone call holds unique importance for both personal and business exchanges, where Caller ID is instrumental in identifying who is reaching out. While businesses leverage Caller ID to enhance trust and call answer rates, individuals use it to filter communications. However, there are moments when you might prefer to manage your own call identification due to privacy concerns, to prevent spam, or to maintain anonymity. For years, the simple *67 code has been the standard for temporarily masking your phone number.
This instantly recognizable code offered a quick way to achieve call privacy. Yet, with rapid technological advancements from traditional landlines to sophisticated smartphones and comprehensive communication platforms like Ringflow, many now question: does *67 still work effectively functioning in 2025? This guide will thoroughly examine *67, covering its background, operational mechanics, present-day effectiveness, and significant drawbacks, while also exploring modern alternatives for caller ID control, including the advanced features offered by solutions such as Ringflow.
What is *67? Does star 67 still work?
*67 code, often pronounced “Star Sixty-Seven,” is a Vertical Service Code (VSC). VSCs are special key combinations dialed before a phone number to activate or deactivate specific telephone service features for a single call. These codes are part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which governs telephone numbering and services across the United States, Canada, and parts of the Caribbean.
The specific function of *67 is Per-Call Caller ID Blocking. Its purpose is to instruct the telephone network not to transmit your Caller ID information (your phone number and associated name, if applicable) to the recipient’s phone for the one specific call you are making immediately after dialing the code.
How Does 67 Technically Work?
Does star 67 still work? Yes, Star 67 generally still works to block Caller ID. When you dial *67 code followed by the destination phone number and press call, your phone doesn’t just send the *67 digits. Instead, it signals your telephone service provider (carrier) to attach a privacy flag or instruction to the call setup data.
- Signal Initiation: Your phone sends the destination number along with the special service request triggered by *67 code.
- Carrier Processing: Your carrier’s network switch recognizes the *67 code requests. It then processes the outgoing call setup information.
- Data Masking: Instead of including your standard Caller ID data (known technically as Calling Line Identification or CLID), the carrier either suppresses this data entirely or replaces it with a specific code indicating privacy has been requested.
- Transmission: The call is routed through the network to the recipient’s carrier.
- Recipient Display: The recipient’s phone system receives the call information without your number. It typically displays a generic message like “Private Number,” “Blocked,” “Unknown Caller,” or “Restricted” on the Caller ID screen, depending on their carrier and device.
Is 67 Free?
Generally, yes. The ability to use *67 code is considered a basic feature included in most standard phone plans (landline and mobile) across North America without any additional charge per use.
How to Use *67 code: A Simple Guide for Landlines and Mobiles
One of the reasons *67 Still Work in the public consciousness is its straightforward application. The process is virtually identical whether you’re using a traditional landline or a modern smartphone.
Using 67 on a Landline:
- Lift the handset and listen for the dial tone.
- Press the star key (*) followed by the digits 6 and 7.
- Immediately dial the full phone number you wish to call, including the area code (and country code if necessary).
- Wait for the call to connect. The person you are calling should see “Private” or a similar indicator instead of your number.
Using 67 on a Mobile Phone (iOS or Android):
- Open your phone’s Dialer app (the app you use to make calls).
- Tap the keypad icon.
- Enter *67 code.
- Immediately after *67 code, type the full phone number you wish to call, including the area code.
- Press the ‘Call’ button.
- The recipient’s Caller ID should display a blocked status.
Key Reminder: It’s Temporary!
The most crucial thing to remember about *67 code is that it works only for the single call you initiate immediately after dialing the code. Your very next call, made without prefixing *67, will transmit your Caller ID as usual. It is not a permanent setting.
Need Better Caller ID Control Than *67?
Does *67 Still Work Reliably in 2025?
Now, let’s address the core question. With all the advancements in telecommunications, VoIP technology, and sophisticated call management systems, does this decades-old code still function?
In the vast majority of standard calling scenarios within the NANP region, *67 continues to function as intended on both traditional landlines and mobile phones (across major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and their Canadian counterparts). Dialing *67 before a standard number will typically result in your Caller ID being blocked for that call.
Where Consistency Might Waver (Minor Caveats):
- Network Interoperability: While rare, highly complex call routing scenarios involving multiple carriers or international links could potentially mishandle the privacy flag, although this is uncommon for standard domestic calls.
- Some Budget MVNOs: Certain Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that lease network access might have slightly different feature implementations, though *67 support is usually standard.
- User Perception vs. Technical Function: *67 code blocks the number transmission. However, many people are now wary of answering calls marked “Private” or “Blocked,” potentially defeating the purpose if your goal is to have the call answered. This isn’t a failure of *67 itself, but a change in user behavior.
So, technically, the code itself remains active and functional within the core telephone network infrastructure for its intended purpose. However, its practical effectiveness depends on understanding its significant limitations.
When *67 Won’t Work or Isn’t Enough
While *67 works for basic P2P calls, its effectiveness evaporates in several important situations. Understanding these limitations is key to managing your call privacy expectations.
Toll-Free Numbers (800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, 833):
Why it fails: Toll-free numbers operate on a system where the recipient pays for the call. To enable billing and call routing/tracking, the network is designed to always capture the incoming number (a system often called Automatic Number Identification, or ANI). ANI is different from the Caller ID (CLID) you control with *67. Even if you dial *67 code, the system behind the toll-free number will still know your number.
Implication: You cannot anonymously call toll-free lines using *67 code.
Emergency Services (911, 112, etc.):
Why it fails: This is a critical safety feature. Emergency dispatch systems must receive the caller’s number and approximate location information to send help effectively, especially if the caller is unable to speak or the call drops. Blocking Caller ID to 911 is intentionally disabled by law and network design.
Implication: Never rely on *67 code for anonymity when calling emergency services. Your number will be visible to the dispatcher.
SMS/Text Messages:
Why it fails: *67 is a VSC designed for voice calls within the traditional circuit-switched or modern packet-switched voice networks. It has absolutely no effect on SMS or MMS messaging, which use different protocols.
Implication: Sending a text message will always reveal your number, regardless of any *67 code usage on voice calls.
Recipient Blocking Your Number:
Why it fails: If the person you are calling has already blocked your specific phone number using their phone’s or carrier’s blocking features, dialing *67 will not magically bypass this block. Their phone system recognizes your underlying number (even if masked by *67) and applies the block as configured. The call likely won’t ring or will go straight to voicemail.
Implication: *67 doesn’t overcome existing blocks placed by the recipient.
Carrier-Specific Policies (Less Common for 67):
Potential Issue: While standard, carriers could theoretically have unique internal policies, though widespread deviation from the *67 standard is rare. It’s more common for issues to arise with permanent blocking features.
Implication: If you consistently find *67 isn’t working on standard calls, a quick check with your carrier might be warranted, but look at the other limitations first.
VoIP Nuances (Basic Setups):
Potential Issue: While most modern VoIP services handle *67 correctly, very basic or improperly configured VoIP setups might have inconsistencies in passing the privacy flag through IP networks. Advanced providers like Ringflow engineer their systems for reliable feature parity.
Implication: With quality VoIP, *67 should work, but it highlights that underlying technology matters.
Call Tracing by Authorities or Carriers:
Why it fails for true anonymity: *67 blocks the number display to the recipient. It does not make the call untraceable. Your phone carrier always logs the call details (originating number, destination number, time, duration). Law enforcement, with appropriate legal authorization (like a warrant or subpoena), can obtain these records. Annoying or harassing calls, even if made using *67, can often be traced back.
Implication: Do not mistake *67 for a tool for illegal or malicious activities. It provides recipient-level masking, not systemic anonymity.
Understanding these boundaries shows that while *67 has a function, it’s far from a universal privacy solution.
The Ethics and Etiquette of Using *67 code
Using *67 isn’t just about technical function; it involves social and ethical considerations.
Legitimate Use Cases:
- Protecting Personal Privacy: Calling a business or individual you don’t know well without revealing your personal number initially.
- Avoiding Return Spam/Calls: Making a one-off call (e.g., to inquire about a classified ad) without wanting your number stored and potentially misused.
- Sensitive Personal Calls: Situations where discretion is paramount for personal reasons.
- Initial Business Outreach (Use with Caution): Some cold-calling scenarios might use it, but it can appear unprofessional (more on this below).
Potential Downsides and Misuse:
- Recipient Mistrust: As mentioned, many people simply don’t answer “Private” or “Blocked” calls, assuming they are spam or malicious. Using *67 might mean your call goes unanswered.
- Appearing Unprofessional: In a business context, hiding your Caller ID can seem evasive or untrustworthy, especially when contacting clients or partners. Transparent communication often relies on clear identification. Ringflow offers professional ways to manage business caller ID.
- Potential for Harassment: Unfortunately, *67 can be misused for making anonymous harassing or prank calls. Remember, such calls are often still traceable by authorities. Using telecommunication services for harassment is illegal.
Best Practices:
- Use Judiciously: Reserve *67 code for situations where privacy genuinely outweighs the need for identification and the risk of the call being ignored.
- Consider the Recipient: Put yourself in their shoes. Would you answer a blocked call?
- Professional Context: For business communications, transparency is usually better. Explore professional solutions like those offered by Ringflow for managing outbound caller ID presentation.
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Modern Alternatives to *67 for Controlling Your Caller ID
Given the limitations and per-call nature of *67, many users seek more robust or permanent solutions. Fortunately, technology offers several alternatives:
Built-in Smartphone Settings (Permanent Blocking):
Most modern smartphones allow you to disable Caller ID transmission for all outgoing calls directly within the settings.
- How to Hide Number on iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Scroll down and tap Phone.
- Tap Show My Caller ID.
- Toggle the switch OFF. (Note: Availability might depend on the carrier)
- How to Hide Number on Android:
(Steps can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and Android version)- Open the Phone (Dialer) app.
- Tap the Menu icon (often three dots).
- Select Settings or Call Settings.
- Look for More settings, Supplementary services, or similar.
- Find Show my caller ID or Caller ID.
- Choose Hide number.
- Pros: Easy to set up, permanent until you toggle it back on.
- Cons: Blocks your ID for every call, which might be inconvenient. You may need to use *82 (see below) to unblock it for specific calls.
Carrier-Level Blocking (Permanent):
You can contact your phone service provider (for landline or mobile) and request permanent Caller ID blocking on your line.
- How: Call customer service or check your online account portal.
- Pros: Network-level solution, doesn’t rely on phone settings, consistently blocks ID.
- Cons: May require using *82 to show your number on specific calls. Some carriers might potentially charge a small monthly fee (less common now). Less flexible than per-call options.
Third-Party Caller ID Blocking Apps:
Various apps claim to offer enhanced caller ID management, including blocking.
- How they work: Often route calls through their own servers or use other methods to mask the number.
- Pros: Might offer additional features beyond simple blocking.
- Cons: Reliability varies greatly. Potential privacy concerns (you’re routing calls through a third party). May involve subscription fees. Research carefully before using.
Burner Numbers / Second Phone Lines:
Services allow you to get temporary or secondary phone numbers (often via apps or VoIP).
- How: Sign up for a service (e.g., Google Voice, dedicated burner apps, or a second line from providers like Ringflow).
- Pros: Provides a completely separate number, excellent for maintaining privacy for specific purposes (online listings, temporary projects). The primary number remains unaffected.
- Cons: Can involve costs. Requires managing an additional number.
Advanced VoIP Solutions (Focus on Ringflow)
This is where modern communication platforms truly shine, especially for businesses and professionals. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems offer far more granular control over caller ID.
Introducing Ringflow: Platforms like Ringflow are designed with flexible communication management at their core. These systems move beyond basic blocking to offer sophisticated caller ID features.
Granular Control: With advanced VoIP platforms, users often gain the ability to:
- Choose a default outbound Caller ID from multiple owned numbers.
- Potentially block Caller ID on a per-call basis through the interface (often easier than remembering *67).
- Set specific Caller IDs for different departments or campaigns (e.g., Sales shows one number, Support shows another).
- Utilize features like Local Presence dialing, which displays a local number to the recipient to increase answer rates, managed centrally through the system.
Professionalism and Reliability: Unlike the potentially suspect “Private Number” from *67, modern VoIP solutions allow businesses to present a consistent and professional image with legitimate, chosen numbers. The underlying technology ensures reliable transmission of the selected ID.
Ease of Use: Managing these options is typically done through an intuitive web or app interface provided by the platform, making complex configurations simple.
Beyond Caller ID: Such platforms integrate caller ID management into a broader suite of communication tools (call routing, analytics, voicemail, etc.), offering a holistic solution. Using an advanced system provides far superior control compared to legacy codes. For businesses needing reliable and flexible outbound number presentation, modern VoIP is the way forward. The features within these systems are designed for today’s communication needs. Exploring Ringflow’s specific capabilities is recommended for any organization prioritizing professional outreach. These platforms offer significant advantages.
*67 vs. Other Star Codes: Key Differences Explained
*67 is often mentioned alongside other VSCs. Let’s clarify the common ones:
- *69 (Last Call Return): This code calls back the last number that called you. It’s used to return a missed call, especially if you don’t have Caller ID or didn’t catch the number. It serves a completely different function than *67. *Note: Privacy concerns and the prevalence of spam calls have reduced the practical use of 69 for many.
- *82 (Per-Call Caller ID Unblocking): This code does the opposite of *67. If you have permanent Caller ID blocking enabled (either via phone settings or carrier request), dialing *82 before a number will allow your Caller ID to be shown for that specific call only. It temporarily overrides permanent blocking.
- Other Codes: Various other VSCs exist for features like call forwarding (*72/*73), call waiting, etc., but *67, *69, and *82 are the most commonly discussed in relation to Caller ID and call return.
Conclusion:
So, does *67 still work? Technically yes, it remains a simple, free option for temporary, per-call Caller ID blocking in basic scenarios. However, its effectiveness is significantly hampered by major limitations—it fails with toll-free and emergency numbers, doesn’t apply to texts, is only temporary, and “Private” calls are often ignored—making it an incomplete privacy solution for today’s communication landscape. 1 While permanent options like built-in phone settings or carrier blocking offer consistency, they lack flexibility.
For truly granular, professional, and adaptable control, especially for businesses, modern VoIP platforms like Ringflow are the clear successors, enabling strategic management of outbound caller identity integrated with other communication tools. Understanding *67’s restricted role alongside the superior capabilities of advanced alternatives like Ringflow is essential for making informed choices about caller ID privacy in our connected world.
FAQs
Does 67 still reliably block caller ID in 2025?
Yes, for standard calls within the NANP on most landlines and mobile phones, *67 generally still works to block your Caller ID for that specific call. However, it has significant limitations (toll-free, 911, texts, etc.).
Is using 67 truly anonymous?
No. It only blocks the display to the recipient. Your carrier logs the call, and law enforcement can trace the call with legal authorization. It is not anonymous from the network or authorities.
Can 67 calls be traced?
Yes. Phone companies have records of all calls made, including those using *67. Harassing or illegal calls made using *67 can be traced back to the originating number through official channels.
Does 67 work if I call a number saved in my contacts?
Yes, but you usually can’t just press the contact. You need to manually dial *67 first, then enter the saved contact’s phone number digit by digit (or copy-paste the number) into the dialer.
Why might 67 seem not to work sometimes?
Usually, it’s due to one of its limitations: calling a toll-free number, an emergency number, the recipient blocking you, or potentially (though less likely) a carrier or network issue. It also doesn’t work for text messages.
