Privacy has become such a concern for many mobile users, and sometimes you might need to make a call without showing your identity. Safaricom, being the largest telecommunications service provider in Kenya, has made it simple to hide your caller identification by using USSD codes. Whether you want your number to be hidden in that one call only or in all outgoing calls, this guide will show you how to do it.

Why Block Your Caller ID?

The reasons for the caller ID hiding feature available on our carriers can be different: perhaps one is making a call to surprise someone, or simply one wants their privacy protected for whatever personal or professional reason. Whatever the reason, Safaricom has got some clever simple ways that might help keep your phone number private.

Use USSD Codes to Block Your Caller ID

1. Block Caller ID for Specific Contact

If you wish to block your number for just one call:

  • Open your phone's dial pad.
  • Dial #31# followed by the recipient's telephone number.
    For example, to block your number when calling 0722000000, you would dial:
    #31#0722000000.
  • Press the call button.

The recipient will see your call as "Private Number" or "Unknown Caller."

2. Block Caller ID on All Outgoing Calls

To enable this feature for all calls you make:

  • Open your dial pad and enter *31#.
  • You should get a confirmation message saying the feature is enabled.

Now, all calls from your number will be masked to an unknown/private number.

How to Turn Off Private Number Settings

If you have activated the "hide caller ID" feature but no longer need it, you can turn it off. It depends on the operating system of your phone.

For Android Devices

  • Open your Phone app.
  • Tap the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner and tap Settings.
  • Go to Calls > GSM Call Settings > Additional Settings.
  • Tap Caller ID and select:
    • Network Default: Uses your carrier default setting by default.
    • Show Number: Allows recipient to see your number.

Note: These steps may slightly vary depending on your Android version and device model.

Last Words

Whether it is for making specific calls or managing one's privacy in general, Safaricom's caller ID settings put you in control. Make informed decisions on who sees your number with USSD codes or phone settings. Just be sure to use these features responsibly and ethically to avoid misuse.

Would you block your caller ID, or do you think that would be too inconvenient? Let us know in the comments!