You Are about to call someone, but you don’t want them to see your number.
Maybe it is a business deal, and you need privacy.
Or you are dodging telemarketers who won’t quit.
Whatever the reason, hiding your MTN number in Nigeria is dead simple.
This guide breaks it down with zero fluff.
You’ll get step-by-step methods, real-world examples, and tips to keep your privacy locked tight.
Why Truehost Nigeria Ties Into Your Privacy Game
Privacy isn’t just about hiding your phone number.
It’s about controlling your digital footprint.
Whether you’re calling a client or building an online brand, you need tools that prioritize security and affordability.
That’s where Truehost Nigeria comes in.
As the cheapest and most reliable web hosting provider in Nigeria, Truehost offers secure hosting with free SSL certificates and 99.9% uptime.
Just like hiding your MTN number keeps your calls private, Truehost keeps your website safe from prying eyes.
Start your online journey with them and lock down your digital presence.
Why Hide Your MTN Number?
People hide their numbers for real reasons.
You’re calling a stranger to buy their car, but don’t want them blowing up your phone later.
Or you’re a small business owner who needs to keep personal and work calls separate.
Maybe you’re just tired of spam calls.
Hiding your number gives you control, privacy, and security.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) says it’s 100% legal to hide your caller ID, as long as you’re not breaking laws.
Here’s how to do it right.
Method 1: Use the #31# USSD Code for One-Time Hides
This is the quickest way to hide your MTN number for a single call.
It’s like putting on a mask for one conversation. Here’s how it works:
- Open your phone’s dialer.
- Type #31#, then the number you’re calling. Example: To call 08012345678, dial #31#08012345678.
- Hit the call button.
- The recipient sees “Private Number” or “Unknown” instead of your digits.
Pro Tip: This only hides your number for that one call.
Hang up, and your number shows up again on the next call.
Perfect for one-off situations, like when I called a guy to buy his old couch.
Didn’t want him texting me weeks later.
Worked like a charm.
Method 2: Hide Your Number for All Calls via Phone Settings
Want your number hidden every time you call?
You can set this up in your phone’s settings.
It’s like flipping a switch to stay anonymous. Here’s how to do it on Android and iPhone:
For Android:
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the three dots or gear icon (top-right corner).
- Go to Settings > Call Settings > Additional Settings.
- Find Caller ID.
- Select “Hide Number.”
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Phone.
- Select Show My Caller ID.
- Toggle it OFF.
Heads-Up: Some networks or recipients might block calls from hidden numbers.
I learned this the hard way when my hidden calls to a bank kept getting rejected.
Check if your calls are going through.
To unhide, just toggle the setting back to “Show Number.”
Method 3: Contact MTN Customer Care for Permanent Privacy
If you want MTN to handle it, call their customer care.
This is for people who want their number hidden for all calls, no tinkering required. Here’s the deal:
- Dial 180 from your MTN line.
- Ask to activate the “Hide Caller ID” service.
- Be ready for validation. They might ask for your details to confirm it’s you.
- There might be a small fee. MTN doesn’t always charge, but it depends.
This method is rock-solid for long-term privacy.
A friend of mine, Chika, runs a side hustle selling clothes.
She got tired of customers calling her personal line at 2 a.m.
MTN’s customer care set her up, and now her number stays private.
To unhide, just call 180 again and ask them to turn it off.
Method 4: Use Third-Party Apps for Extra Privacy
Want more control?
Third-party apps let you hide your number or even use a fake one.
These are great for business owners or anyone juggling multiple roles.
Here’s what to do:
- Search the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Look for apps like Hushed, Burner, or TextNow. - Download and set up the app.
- Follow the app’s instructions to make calls with a hidden or temporary number.
- Read the terms. Some apps collect data, so check their privacy policy.
Example: I used Hushed when I was selling my old laptop online.
Didn’t want random buyers having my real number.
The app gave me a temporary number, and I closed the deal without stress.
Warning: Stick to well-reviewed apps. Shady ones might mess with your data.
Things to Watch Out For
Hiding your number isn’t foolproof. Here are some gotchas to avoid:
- Some numbers block private calls. Businesses or people with call-blocking apps might reject your call.
- International calls might not hide. The recipient’s network could override your settings.
- SMS doesn’t hide. Hiding your number only works for calls, not texts. Use apps like WhatsApp for private texting.
- Don’t abuse it. Hiding your number for scams or harassment is illegal in Nigeria. Keep it legit.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Does hiding my MTN number cost money?
Nope. The #31# code and phone settings are free. MTN’s customer care option might have a small fee, but it’s rare.
Can I hide my number for international calls?
Usually, yes. But some foreign networks might show your number anyway. Test it with a friend abroad first.
How do I unhide my number?
For one call, dial *31# before the number (e.g., *31#08012345678). For permanent unhiding, reverse your phone settings or call MTN at 180.
Why isn’t my hidden number working?
Check your network signal. Restart your phone. If it still fails, call MTN at 180 or try another method.
Wrap-Up: Take Control of Your Privacy
Hiding your MTN number in Nigeria is easy.
Use the #31# code for quick calls.
Tweak your phone settings for always-on privacy.
Call MTN for a permanent fix.
Or grab a third-party app for extra flexibility.
Each method has its place, like tools in a toolbox.
Pick what fits your life.
Privacy is power.
Whether you are dodging spam or keeping your business line separate, these tricks give you the edge.
And while you’re locking down your calls, don’t forget your online presence.
Head to Truehost Nigeria for affordable, secure web hosting.
Their servers are local, fast, and backed by 24/7 support.
Get your website up and your privacy tight.
No excuses—do it now.
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