How to hide a phone number when calling on Android: all methods in 2026

Hiding a number for outgoing calls is a function that is useful in dozens of situations: from protecting personal data to professional activities. On Androiddevices this can be done in several ways - through system settings, special USSD codes or applications from third-party developers. However, not all methods are equally reliable, and some may even block your number from the operator.

In this article we will examine 5 proven ways to hide a number on smartphones Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel and other brands that work on Android 12–15. You will learn how to temporarily or permanently hide your number, what restrictions mobile operators impose, and why some methods stopped working after system updates. And also - how to check whether your number is really hidden for the subscriber, and what to do if the function does not work.

1. Hiding a number through the phone settings (the most reliable way)

Most modern smartphones have Android allow you to hide the number directly in the call menu. This method does not require the installation of additional applications and works at the system level, which minimizes the risk of operator blocking. However, the settings interface may differ depending on the version Android and the manufacturer's shell (One UI, MIUI, ColorOS etc.).

To activate number hiding:

1. Open the application "Phone" (standard or from the manufacturer).
2. Click on the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner and select "Settings".
3. Go to the section "Additional settings" or "Call settings" (the name may vary).
4. Find the item "Subscriber identification", "Show my number" or "Additional options".
5. Select option "Hide number", "Anonymous" or "Deny".

On some devices (for example, Samsung Galaxy s One UI 6.0) the path will be like this: Phone → ⋮ → Settings → Additional settings → Subscriber identification → Hide number.

The "Phone" application is open

The "Call Settings" section is found

The "Hide number" option is selected

A test call was made to check -->

⚠️ Attention: Some operators (for example, Tele2 or Iota) can ignore this setting and transfer the number to the subscriber. If, after activating the function, your number is still displayed, try other methods.

2. USSD codes for hiding a number (quickly and without settings)

If you don’t want to delve into the phone menu, you can use USSD codes short commands that are sent to the operator. This method works on all devices, regardless of version Android, but has a limitation: the code must be entered before each call if you want to hide the number selectively.

Here are the basic commands for popular Russian operators:

Operator	Code to hide the number	Code to cancel hiding
MTS	*31# + subscriber number	#31# + subscriber number
Beeline	*31# + subscriber number	#31# + subscriber number
MegaFon	*31# + subscriber number	#31# + subscriber number
Tele2	*31# + subscriber number	#31# + subscriber number

Example: to call a number +79123456789 with a hidden number on MTS, dial *31#79123456789 and press the button call.

This method has two disadvantages:

• 🔄 You need to enter a code before each call.
• 📵 Some operators can block USSD commands to hide the number (for example, in roaming).

3. Permanently hiding the number through the operator (at the SIM card level)

If you need the number to be hidden by default for all outgoing calls, you can contact your operator and activate this option at the SIM card level. This is the most reliable method, since hiding will work even if you change your phone. However, not all operators provide this service for free.

To enable permanent number hiding:

1. Call your operator's support service (numbers: MTS — 0890, Beeline — 0611, MegaFon — 0500, Tele2 — 611).
2. Tell the operator that you want to activate the service "AntiAON" or "Hidden number".
3. Confirm the connection (you may need a passport or code word).

The service can be paid (from 30 to 100 rubles per month) or free - check with the operator. Also, some tariffs initially include the ability to hide the number at no additional cost.

⚠️ Attention: On corporate or business tariffs, the number hiding service may be blocked by default. Check the terms of your tariff plan in your personal account.

MTS

Beeline

MegaFon

Tele2

Iota

Other-->

4. Applications for hiding numbers: pros and risks

B Google Play there are dozens of applications that promise to hide the number when making calls. Among the most popular are «Hide My Number», «Burner» i «Hushed». They work on two principles:

• 🔄 Forwarding. calls via a virtual number (your real number is not transmitted).
• 📱 Changing system settings (analogous to manually hiding through the phone menu).

Advantages of applications:

• ✅ You can selectively hide the number for individual contacts.
• ✅ Some applications offer temporary (“burner”) numbers.
• ✅ Convenient interface for managing settings.

However, there are serious risks:

• 🚫 Data security: applications can collect information about your calls.
• 💰 Hidden fees: many “free” applications require a subscription after a trial period.
• 📵 Unstable operation: operators can block virtual numbers.

If you still decide to use the application, choose proven options with high ratings (4.5+ in Google Play) and read reviews. For example, «Hushed» allows you to create a temporary number for $2 per week, and «Burner» offers flexible rates depending on the number of minutes.

How to check if the application is spying on you?

Before installing, check the application permissions in Google Play. If it requests access to:

- Contacts

- Call log

- SMS

- Geolocation

without a good reason, this is a reason to be wary. Also use tools like Exodus Privacy to analyze trackers in an APK file.

5. Hiding a number via Dual SIM and a second SIM card

If your smartphone supports two SIM cards (for example, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra or Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+), you can use one of them exclusively for anonymous calls. This method does not require additional settings or applications, but has its own nuances:

How to set up:

1. Insert a second SIM card (you can use a cheap tariff without the Internet).
2. Go to Settings → SIM cards and mobile networks.
3. Select the SIM card from which you will call and activate number hiding for it (as described in the first method).
4. When making a call, select the desired SIM card in the dialing menu.

Advantages of the method:

• 🔒 Complete anonymity: the main number remains “clean”.
• 📱 No dependence on applications or USSD codes.
• 🔄 You can quickly switch between “open” and “hidden” modes.

Disadvantages:

• 💳 Additional costs for a second SIM card.
• 📶 Not all phones support Dual SIM (especially flagships with eSIM).

6. Check: is your number really hidden?

Some users activate number hiding, but do not check whether it actually works. As a result, the number may be displayed to the subscriber, and you will not even know about it. To make sure that everything is configured correctly, use one of the methods:

Method 1: Test call to another phone

• 📱 Ask a friend or colleague to accept your call and tell you if the number is visible.
• 🔍 If the number is visible, check the settings again.

Method 2: Call back services

Some online services (for example, Zadarma or SIPNET) allow you to receive a call and show which number is displayed. To do this:

1. Register on the service (many give a free trial period).
2. Call the number provided. virtual number.
3. Check in your personal account which number has been identified.

Method 3: USSD code to check the status

Dial *#31# and press call If a message appears "Status: Activated" — hiding the number works. If "Status: Deactivated" —function disabled.

⚠️ Attention: Some operators (for example, MegaFon in roaming) may ignore the number hiding settings. If you are calling abroad, check the conditions with the operator.

7. Frequent problems and their solutions

Even after correctly setting up number hiding, failures may occur. Here are the most common problems and ways to fix them:

Problem	Possible cause	Solution
The number is displayed despite the settings	The operator is blocking hide	Try the USSD code or contact support
USSD code does not work *31#	The service is not connected or blocked	Activate "AntiAON" through the operator
Application to hide the number does not work	The operator blocks virtual numbers	Use a second SIM card or system settings
Hide only works for some contacts	Settings applied selectively	Check the settings for each contact in the phone book

If none of the methods worked, your operator may have completely blocked the ability to hide the number. This is true for some corporate tariffs or tariffs with increased security. In this case, there is only one option left - to use a second SIM card or virtual number from a third-party service.

FAQ: Answers to common questions questions

Is it possible to hide the number when calling hotlines (112, 02, banks)?

No. Calls to emergency numbers (112, 101, 102, 103, 104) and some support services (for example, banks) always transmit your real number, even if you have privacy activated. This is a legal requirement to ensure security.

Will my location be visible if I call from a hidden number?

Hiding a number does not hide your location. If the subscriber uses special services (for example, Truecaller or GetContact), he can see the approximate region of your number. For complete anonymity, use VPN or calls through VoIP (for example, Signal or Telegram).

Is it possible to hide a number when calling via WhatsApp or Telegram?

In instant messengers, a number cannot be hidden - it is tied to account. However, you can:

• 📱 Use the second number to register in the messenger.
• 🔒 Call via secret chats to Telegram (the number is not displayed, but the subscriber will see your nickname).

Why did hiding the number stop working after updating Android?

Some updates (for example, switching to Android 14) Also, operators can change the privacy policy Check:

• ⚙️ Settings for hiding the number in the phone menu.
• 📡 State of the operator's Anti-AON service.
• 🔄 Reboot the phone after the update.

Can a number be blocked for frequent hiding?

Theoretically - yes. If you call from a hidden number too often (for example, for spam or fraud), the operator may regard this as suspicious activity and temporarily block the SIM card. However, with normal use (several calls per day), the risk is minimal.