Are you looking to make calls without revealing your phone number? Or perhaps you’ve accidentally hidden your caller ID and want to show it again?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
The codes for private caller ID are the same for all networks, so this tutotrial should work across all Kenyan telcos
Activating private number on Safaricom or Airtel lines
There are two main ways to hide your caller ID:
1) Using a code for individual calls
To hide your number for a specific call:
- Open your phone’s dialer
- Type #31# before the number you want to call
- Press the call button
For example, if you’re calling 0712345678, you’d dial #31#0712345678.
This method is great when you only want to hide your number for certain calls.
2) Activating private caller ID for all calls
If you want all your calls to be private:
- Go to your phone’s Settings
- Tap on “Phone” or “Call Settings”
- Find the option that says “Show My Caller ID”
- Turn this option off
Now, all your outgoing calls will have a hidden caller ID.
Does the code #131# hide your number?
No, the code #131# does not hide your number. Note that #131# or *131# are Safaricom’s USSD codes for Auto Okoa services.
The correct code to hide your number when making a call is #31#.
Deactivating private number on Safaricom
Maybe you’ve decided you want to show your number again. Here’s how to do it:
1) For individual calls
If you used #31# for a specific call, don’t worry. Your next call will automatically show your caller ID. You don’t need to do anything extra.
2) Changing phone settings back
Besides deactivating via USSD #31#, you can also follow the steps below. Not sure why you would want to do so, but in case the deactivation code doesn’t work…
To show your caller ID for all calls again:
- Open your phone’s Settings
- Tap on “Phone” or “Call Settings”
- Find “Show My Caller ID”
- Turn this option on
3) Using a quick code
You can also use a simple code to turn off private number:
- Open your phone’s dialer
- Dial #31# (note the # symbol at the beginning, not *)
- Press the call button
This will immediately disable the private number service for all your outgoing calls.
It’s important to remember that *31# (with an asterisk) is typically used to activate the private number feature, while #31# (with a hash) is used to deactivate it.
Why use a private number?
There are several reasons you might want to use a private number:
- Privacy: You don’t want the person you’re calling to have your number
- Security: To prevent potential misuse of your phone number
- Surprise calls: When you want to surprise someone without them knowing it’s you calling
However, remember that some people might not answer calls from private numbers. Use this feature wisely.
A note on other networks
While we’ve focused on Safaricom, these methods generally work for other networks in Kenya too, such as Airtel and Telkom. The process is usually the same or very similar.
Private number FAQs
Can I remove private number Safaricom by dialing *31# again?
No, dialing *31# again will not remove the private number setting on Safaricom.
To remove or deactivate the private number feature, you should use a different code. The correct code for disabling this service is #31#
What is a private number?
A private number, also known as a hidden number or anonymous call, is when you make a phone call without revealing your phone number to the recipient.
The person receiving the call will see “Private Number” or “Anonymous” on their screen instead of your actual number.
How do I make a private call in Kenya?
To make a private call in Kenya:
– Open your phone’s dialer
– Dial #31# before the phone number you want to call
– Enter the full phone number and make the call
– For example, to call 0712345678 privately, you’d dial #31#0712345678.
Does this work for all networks in Kenya?
Yes, the *31# and #31# codes work for all major networks in Kenya, including Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom.
Are there any drawbacks to using a private number?
Yes:
– People generally don’t answer calls from private numbers
– In case of missed calls, recipients can’t call you back
– It may seem suspicious to the recipient
– You can’t use callback services for private numbers
Is it legal to use a private number in Kenya?
Yes, it’s legal to use private numbers in Kenya. However, it’s important to use this feature responsibly and not for malicious purposes.
Can I block private numbers?
Most smartphones allow you to block private numbers:
>> Go to your phone settings
>> Find “Call Blocking” or “Block Numbers”
>> Look for an option to block unknown or private numbers
>> Remember, blocking private numbers might cause you to miss important calls from people who prefer to keep their numbers private.
What should I do if I receive unwanted calls from private numbers?
If you’re receiving unwanted calls from private numbers:
– Don’t engage with the caller
– Block the number if possible
– Report persistent harassment to your network provider or the police
Why would someone use a private number?
In most cases, people accidentally activate their private number service when trying to access okoa services.
It’s very easy to dial *31#, instead of *131#, especially when using a kabambe phone with a wonky 1 key.
Those who intentionally do so, may have some unwaranted reasons:
- Privacy: To protect their personal information
- Security: To prevent potential misuse of their phone number
- Professional purposes: Some businesses use private numbers when contacting clients
- Surprise calls: When they want to surprise the recipient
A legitimate reason is Avoiding Call Tracing: Some callers may wish to avoid being traced for various reasons, including personal safety or to prevent unwanted follow-ups from the recipient.
Wrapping up
Controlling your caller ID visibility on your line is easy once you know how.
Have you tried using a private number before? What was your experience? Feel free to share in the comments below! Do you take private phone calls?
