How to Remove Private Number on Android and iOS in Nigeria

Have you ever tried calling someone and they didn’t pick up, only for you to realize later that the number showed up as “Private Number” or “Unknown Caller”?

I’ve been in that situation and I think I turned the setting on intentionally or maybe by accident; I can’t remember, but hiding your number can make people suspicious and  ignore your calls.

In this CrackHow guide, we’ll show you how to disable private number settings on Android and iOS.

How to Remove Private Number on Android

If you’re using an Android phone and want your phone number to show when calling others:

1. Open the Phone App: Tap the green phone icon on your home screen.
2. Access More Options: Tap the three dots (•••) in the top-right corner.
3. Navigate to Settings: Select ‘Settings’, then choose ‘Calls’.
4. Go to Additional Settings: Tap ‘Additional settings’, then choose ‘Caller ID’.
5. Select ‘Show Number’: This will remove the private number setting and make your number visible on calls.

Your number will now appear normally on the recipient’s phone when you call.

How to Remove Private Number on iPhone (iOS)

iPhone users can also remove the private number setting in a few easy steps:

1. Open Settings: Find and tap the Settings app.
2. Scroll to Phone: Tap on ‘Phone’ from the settings menu.
3. Tap on ‘Show My Caller ID’: You’ll see a toggle.
4. Turn It ON: Switch the toggle to the ON position to enable Caller ID.

Once done, your number will show up when you call others.

Alternative: Use 31# to Deactivate Private Number (MTN & Airtel)

Whether you’re on MTN or Airtel in Nigeria, this method works for both:

• To Remove Private Number: Dial *31# from your phone.
• To Confirm Your Caller ID Status: Dial *#31#.

You’ll receive a confirmation message stating whether your number will now be visible during outgoing calls.

How to Temporarily Show Your Number for One Call (Airtel)

If you usually hide your number but want to show it just once:

• Dial #31# followed by the number you want to call.
• Your number will be visible only for that particular call.

How to Reactivate Your Private Number Setting

Changed your mind and want to go back to hiding your number? Here’s how:

• For MTN or Airtel: Dial #31# + the number you’re calling.
• On Android: Go back to Caller ID settings and select ‘Hide Number’.
• On iPhone: Toggle ‘Show My Caller ID’ OFF under Phone settings.

FAQs Caller ID & Privacy in Nigeria

Can switching network providers affect my caller ID settings?

Switching network providers might reset your caller ID preferences to the default settings of the new provider. It’s advisable to check and adjust your caller ID settings after changing providers to ensure they align with your privacy preferences.

How do I manage caller ID settings for dual SIM phones?

For dual SIM phones, caller ID settings need to be managed for each SIM card separately. This usually involves going into the settings for each SIM (if your device allows individual SIM settings) and adjusting the caller ID preferences as desired.

Are there any legal restrictions on using a private number in Nigeria?

While using a private number for personal privacy is generally acceptable, there might be legal restrictions on using such features for certain purposes, like telemarketing or fraud. It’s important to use the private caller ID feature responsibly and within legal boundaries.

Can I set my number to private for text messages as well?

The ability to hide your number when sending text messages varies by network and isn’t typically supported directly through standard SMS technology. However, certain apps and services offer the ability to send messages without disclosing your number.

Is it possible to customise what the receiver sees instead of my number? Customising what the receiver sees (e.g., displaying a name or business instead of a number) generally requires the use of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services or specific business telecommunications solutions rather than standard network settings.