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| Code for Hiding Number on MTN |
Learn the code for hiding number on MTN in 2026 — discover how to make private calls using USSD codes, phone settings, and permanent caller ID blocking for MTN Nigeria.
In a world where privacy matters more than ever, many MTN users ask: “What’s the code for hiding number on MTN?” Whether you’re calling someone you don’t want to share your number with or protecting personal privacy, knowing how to hide your caller ID is useful. This comprehensive guide breaks down every method available in 2026 — from quick USSD hacks to permanent caller ID settings and professional tips.
Why Hide Your Number?
Whether you’re calling a stranger, handling business inquiries, or simply value your privacy, hiding your phone number can help protect your identity and reduce unwanted callbacks. Luckily, MTN supports multiple ways to mask your number on outgoing calls — some temporary, others more long-lasting. This guide explores each option in a clear and actionable way.
What Does It Mean to Hide Your Number?
When you hide your phone number, the person you’re calling can only see “Private Number” or “Unknown Caller” instead of your actual MTN number. This feature is also known as caller ID blocking and helps maintain anonymity on phone calls.
Primary Method — The Code for Hiding Number on MTN
USSD Code for a Single Call
The easiest way to hide your number on MTN just for one call is by using this call prefix:
#31#<Phone Number>
Example:
To call 08012345678 privately, dial:
#31#08012345678
This disguises your number for that specific call only, and the recipient will see “Private Number” or “Unknown” instead of your digits.
What the Code Does
- It appends a hidden caller ID request before your number.
- The call still goes through normally, but your MTN number does not appear on the receiving phone.
- This method works on Android, iPhone, and basic feature phones.
Hide Your Number Permanently (or for All Calls)
If you want your MTN number hidden all the time — not just per call — there are a few deeper options:
Method 1: Use the USSD Toggle
Some phones and regions allow you to toggle caller ID using the same code:
#31#
- Dialing this alone (without a phone number) may activate permanent hiding of your caller ID.
- Dial it again to deactivate or return to network default.
Note: Not all MTN SIMs support the permanent toggle via this code, but it’s worth trying if phone settings aren’t available.
Method 2: Change Phone Settings
You can often hide your MTN number using your device’s native call settings:
For Android:
- Open the Phone or Dialer app.
- Tap the three-dot menu or Settings icon.
- Go to Call settings or Additional settings.
- Tap Caller ID.
- Select Hide number.
For iPhone:
- Open Settings.
- Scroll to Phone.
- Tap Show My Caller ID.
- Toggle it OFF to hide the number.
Once done, all outgoing calls will show up as “Private Number” until you reverse it.
Method 3: Ask MTN Customer Care
Want MTN to handle it at the network level? You can contact MTN customer care to request caller ID hiding services on your line. This is ideal for users who want a network-level setting rather than relying on phone settings or USSD codes.
Steps:
- Dial 180 from your MTN line to speak with support.
- Request the “hide caller ID” or “block caller ID” service.
- Be prepared for verification (and sometimes a service fee) depending on policy.
This method makes your number hidden on all outgoing calls as configured in MTN’s systems.
Temporary vs Permanent Hiding — What’s the Difference?
| Method | Temporary | Permanent |
|---|---|---|
#31#<number> |
✔️ Single call | ❌ No |
#31# (toggle) |
❌ | ✔️ Sometimes |
| Phone Settings | ❌ | ✔️ Yes |
| MTN Customer Care | ❌ | ✔️ Yes |
Temporary hiding is ideal for one-off calls, while permanent hiding (via settings or network configuration) is better when you regularly want your number concealed.
Who Can Benefit from Hiding Caller ID?
People use hidden caller ID for a variety of legitimate reasons:
- Privacy when calling someone you don’t know.
- Business situations where you prefer anonymous first contact.
- Safety and security, especially when dealing with classified or sensitive matters.
- Situations such as arranging private sales or sensitive personal calls.
However, hiding your number can sometimes reduce trust — some recipients avoid calls from hidden numbers — so use this feature thoughtfully.
Important Notes on Hidden Calls
Some Numbers May Block Hidden Calls
Certain recipients — especially banks, official lines, or businesses — may reject calls from hidden numbers for security reasons. If your call doesn’t connect, try revealing your number or use alternate contact channels.
Emergency and Official Lines
Emergency numbers often bypass caller ID restrictions for legal and safety reasons. Thus, hiding your number may not work when contacting those services.
FAQs About Hiding Your MTN Number
Can I hide my number for SMS?
No — hiding your number generally works only for voice calls. SMS will still display your number unless you use third-party messaging platforms.
Will hiding my number cost airtime?
Using the USSD code and phone settings is free; network support may sometimes charge a fee for permanent services depending on MTN policy.
Does hiding my number work internationally?
In many cases yes, but it depends on the recipient’s network abroad. Some international carriers may still display your number or block hidden IDs.
How do I unhide my number later?
- Toggle it back in phone settings.
- Dial
#31#again (to re-enable caller ID). - Ask MTN customer care to deactivate permanent hiding.
Try the hiding code now!
Dial #31#08012345678 the next time you want to make a private call. For full identity control, explore your phone’s Caller ID settings or contact MTN support at 180 for network-level caller ID management.
Conclusion
Understanding the code for hiding number on MTN empowers you to protect your privacy, manage your identity in outgoing calls, and maintain control of who sees your phone information. Whether you use the quick USSD method with #31# for one-off calls or permanently hide your number via phone settings or MTN customer care, this feature provides flexibility and security for modern communication needs.
In 2026, privacy on mobile networks is a priority, and MTN’s tools make it easy to manage your caller ID when it matters most — safely, effectively, and on your terms.
