Are you trying to make a private call without revealing your phone number? Or are you simply tired of getting bombarded with return calls from unknown numbers? Whatever your reason, learning how to hide your number on Airtel can be a game-changer.
Whether you’re using an Android, iPhone, or basic phone, this guide will show you tested and working methods to keep your number hidden when making calls on Airtel Nigeria. And yes—this works in 2025 too!
Why Hide Your Number on Airtel?
Here are a few common reasons people choose to hide their numbers:
- To avoid call-backs from strangers or unknown contacts
- To make anonymous calls without exposing your identity
- To maintain privacy for business or personal reasons
- To protect yourself from harassment, scams, or unwanted attention
Now let’s dive into the methods.
How to Hide Your Number on Airtel: Step-by-Step Guide
There are multiple ways to hide your number on Airtel depending on your device and preferences. Try any of the following methods:
Method 1: Use Airtel’s Call Privacy Feature (USSD Code)
This is the quickest method for hiding your number temporarily on Airtel.
Steps:
- Open your phone dialer.
- Dial
#31#
followed by the number you wish to call.
Example:#31#08123456789
- Press the call button.
Result: The recipient will see “Private Number” or “Unknown Caller” instead of your actual phone number.
Note: This method hides your number for that single call only.
Method 2: Change Settings from Your Phone
You can permanently hide your number by changing the call settings on your device.
For Android:
- Open the Phone/Dialer App
- Tap the three dots (top right corner) → Go to Settings
- Select Call Settings → Additional Settings
- Tap Caller ID and choose Hide Number
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings → Tap on Phone
- Select Show My Caller ID
- Toggle off the switch to Hide Caller ID
This hides your number for all outgoing calls unless you turn it back on.
Method 3: Use the My Airtel App (If Available)
Although the My Airtel App doesn’t always offer number privacy settings directly, it’s still worth checking:
- Open or download the My Airtel App
- Log in with your Airtel number
- Go to Services or Settings
- Look for Privacy or Caller ID Options (Availability may vary)
Method 4: Contact Airtel Customer Care
If none of the above methods work or you’re using a feature phone, contact Airtel support for help:
- Dial 111 from your Airtel line
- Request that they activate Caller ID Restriction on your line
- Follow their instructions
How to Unhide Your Number on Airtel
To show your number again when calling, simply:
- Dial
*31#
before the number you’re calling, or - Go back to your phone settings and switch Caller ID to Show Number, or
- Contact Airtel Customer Care to remove the restriction
Can You Hide Your Number When Sending a Message on Airtel?
Unfortunately, you can’t hide your number when sending a text message (SMS) through the regular Airtel messaging service. However, you can:
- Use anonymous texting apps like TextNow or TextMe
- Send emails or chats through platforms that don’t reveal your number (e.g., WhatsApp Business with alternate lines)
Final Thoughts
Hiding your number on Airtel is a smart move for privacy, especially in today’s digital age. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a permanent setting, you have several working methods to choose from. Just remember to use it responsibly—privacy is good, but trust matters too.
Want more Airtel tricks and mobile tech tips in Nigeria? Visit Popup.com.ng for daily updates, how-tos, and expert guides.