Many mobile device users are faced with the need to make an anonymous call. Whether for business negotiations, personal communication, or simply the desire not to advertise your contact, the function of hiding the number (CLIR) remains in demand. For operator subscribers Tele2using smartphones based on Android, in particular popular models Samsung, there are several ways to implement this task without extra costs.
It is important to understand that the number hiding mechanism works at the intersection of the settings of the device itself and the operator’s network configuration. Gadget owners Galaxy are provided with flexible tools for managing Caller ID directly from the phone menu. However, for the function to work correctly, you must also make sure that your tariff plan does not have strict restrictions on anonymous calls.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the available methods: from quick USSD commands to deep customization of the system menu. We'll also look at possible reasons why the number may be displayed to the other person despite your efforts, and how to fix it. Follow the instructions to ensure complete confidentiality of your outgoing calls.
Universal method via USSD commands
The fastest and most reliable way to hide a number is to use a special service command. This method does not depend on the operating system version Android or your model Samsung. The command is sent directly to the operator's servers Tele2, which activates the number hiding service for all subsequent outgoing calls until cancelled.
To activate the "Anonymous Caller" mode, you need to open the standard "Phone" application and go to the dialing tab. Enter the combination #31# and press the call button. If the service is connected successfully, you will see a confirmation message from the network. Now all your calls will be displayed to the interlocutor as “Unknown number” or “Hidden number”.
If you need to temporarily return the display of your number, for example, to call support or a courier, use the reverse command *31#. This will allow you to make one or more calls with a public number without disabling the global anonymity setting. This flexibility is convenient for those who want to control the visibility of their contact situationally.
⚠️ Attention: Some corporate tariffs or old archive plans Tele2 may block the ability to independently manage the number hiding service via USSD. If the command fails, contact your operator's support.
If the USSD command returns an error, try rebooting your smartphone before trying again. Sometimes the network module requires a restart to correctly register new parameters.
Setting up hiding the number in the Samsung menu
Smartphones Samsung have one of the most thoughtful shells One UI, where many network functions are included in a clear settings menu. This allows you to control the number display without entering digital codes, which is especially convenient for users who prefer a visual interface. The path to the settings may differ slightly depending on the version Android, but the logic remains the same.
To find the switch you need, open the Phone app and tap the three dots in the top right corner of the screen. Select "Settings" from the drop-down menu. Next, scroll down to the "Additional services" or "Other settings" section. This is where the parameter responsible for subscriber identification is hidden subscriber identification.
By clicking on the “Display number” (or “Caller ID”) item, you will see three options: “Show number”, “Hide number” and “Like online”. Select the "Hide number" mode. The device will send a request to the network Tele2 to apply this setting. The process may take a few seconds, after which the status will change to "Hide number".
- 📱 Same as online mode uses the default settings set by your telecom operator.
- 🚫 Selecting "Hide number" forces anonymity for all outgoing calls.
- ✅ The "Show number" option overrides any privacy settings at the device level.
☑️ Checking Samsung settings
It is worth noting that on some models Samsung Galaxy A or M series the path may lie through the general settings of the smartphone: Settings → Applications → Phone → Additional settings. If you don't find the item in the call menu, check this section. The interface One UI is constantly updated, and the arrangement of elements may change in new firmware.
Hide the number for a specific call
Sometimes there is no need to hide the number all the time. You may only need anonymity for one specific conversation, such as when calling to advertise an item for sale or when making first contact with a potential client. In such cases, a global change of settings is not required; it is enough to use a prefix when dialing.
Before entering the phone number of the interlocutor, add a special code #31#. For example, if you need to call the number 89001234567, dial #31#89001234567 and initiate the call. The network Tele2 recognizes this prefix as a command to hide the number only for the current communication session.
This method works regardless of what settings are set in your menu Samsung. Even if you have the “Show number” mode set, using a prefix will override this rule for this particular call. This is the most flexible way to manage privacy without changing the basic parameters of the device.
Technical details of the prefix
Code #31# is the international CLIR (Calling Line Identification Restriction) standard. It works for most telecom operators around the world, including Tele2, MTS, Beeline and Megafon, which makes it a universal tool.
Why the number can be displayed despite the settings
Users often encounter a situation where all the settings are made correctly, but the interlocutor still sees their number. This can cause confusion and privacy concerns. There are a number of technical and organizational reasons why the number hiding function may not work correctly on the network Tele2.
One of the common reasons is a settings conflict. If the phone menu says “Hide number”, but the service is not activated on the operator’s side or is blocked by the tariff, the network may ignore the device’s request. Problems may also arise when using Internet telephony (VoLTE or Wi-Fi Calling), where call routing occurs differently than in classic voice networks.
In addition, emergency services and some service numbers (for example, short numbers of banks or government agencies) have priority and can force the caller's number to be displayed regardless of your settings. This is a requirement of legislation and security rules that cannot be circumvented using standard smartphone tools.
| Cause of failure | Description of the problem | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tariff restrictions | The number hiding service is not available on your tariff | Changing the tariff or connecting an option from the operator |
| VoLTE conflict | Calls via 4G ignore CLIR settings | Temporarily disable VoLTE in the mobile network settings |
| Network failure | Temporary Tele2 switching error | Phone reboot or call again after 5 minutes |
| Incorrect code | Error when entering USSD or prefix | Check that #31# is entered correctly without extra characters |
⚠️ Attention: The VoLTE (Voice over LTE) function may affect the transmission of data about the number. If anonymity is critical, try temporarily disabling this mode in the SIM card settings.
Use of third-party applications
If standard tools Android and settings Samsung do not give the desired result, you can resort to the help of specialized software. The store Google Play presents many call management applications that have Caller ID enhancement functions. However, you should approach their choice with caution.
Most of these applications work as a “layer” between you and the phone book, intercepting the call and replacing the data before sending it to the network. Popular solutions include Truecaller (with a privacy feature in the premium version) or specialized dialer applications. They allow you to create lists of contacts for which the number is always hidden, or set up an anonymity schedule.
However, using third-party software carries risks. You give the application access to your calls and contacts, which may be unsafe from the point of view of data leakage. In addition, such applications may consume additional battery power and slow down the system. It is recommended to use them only in extreme cases when the built-in functions cannot cope.
- 🛡️ Check the permissions that the application requests before installation.
- 📉 Avoid apps with a lot of negative reviews about advertising and crashes.
- ⚙️ Configure the application so that it does not intercept emergency calls.
The built-in Android settings and USSD commands are the most secure and stable way to hide a number. Third-party applications should be considered only as a backup option.
Features of the service on different Tele2 tariffs
The conditions for providing the number hiding service may vary depending on your tariff plan. The operator Tele2 periodically updates the line of tariffs, and some of them may include this feature by default, while on others it may be paid or unavailable. It is important to know the features of your current service package.
On modern tariffs, such as "My Online" or "Everywhere Online", service management is usually completely free and available through your personal account or the "My Tele2" application. There you can visually toggle the "Caller ID" option without entering codes. This is the most convenient way for those who do not want to understand the technical menus of a smartphone.
If you use archived rates, the conditions may be different. In some cases, the service may be disabled at the subscriber profile level. You can check the status of the service by typing the command *157# or through the "Services" section in the operator's mobile application. There you can also see whether a subscription fee is charged for using the function.
⚠️ Attention: Tariff conditions and service availability may be changed unilaterally by the operator. Always check the latest information in your personal account or the official Tele2 application before setting up.
How to check the status in the application
Go to the My Tele2 application → Select your number → Go to the Services section → Find the Calls category → Check the status of the Caller ID option.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will my number be visible if I call the police or an ambulance?
No, when calling emergency services (102, 103, 112) the number is always displayed without fail. This is regulated by law to ensure security and the possibility of a call back in case of communication failure.
How much does the number hiding service cost on Tele2?
On most modern tariffs Tele2 the number hiding service is provided free of charge. However, some older or specific plans may charge a small subscription fee. Check the exact information in your personal account.
Is it possible to hide the number when sending SMS?
No, it is technically impossible to hide the sender's number when sending regular SMS messages. The recipient will always see your phone number. For anonymous correspondence, use messengers with the function of hiding the number or temporary SIM cards.
Why did the number become visible again after rebooting the phone?
This can happen if the setting in the phone menu is reset, and the service is not permanently activated on the operator’s side. It is recommended to secure the setting via the USSD command #31# or activate the service in the operator’s personal account, since these methods have higher priority.
Does hiding a number work when calling via WhatsApp or Telegram?
No, instant messengers use the Internet protocol, and different identification rules apply there. The interlocutor will see the number that is linked to your messenger account. You can hide it only in the privacy settings of the application itself, disabling the visibility of the number for all or specific contacts.