No Caller ID vs. Unknown Caller: What’s the difference?

Summer is a time for Receiving phone calls from numbers you don't recognize can be confusing and sometimes frustrating. You may have noticed that some calls show up as "No Caller ID," while others appear as "Unknown Caller." But what's the difference? Verizon Security Advisor experts are here to explain, so you can better understand and manage these mysterious calls. 


What does "No Caller ID" mean? 

When a call comes through with "No Caller ID," it generally means the caller has deliberately blocked their number from appearing on your phone. Here’s a bit more detail on why and how this happens: 


Why would someone use No Caller ID? 

1. Privacy concerns: The caller might be concerned about their privacy and doesn’t want their number visible. 
2. Business calls: Companies, especially those conducting surveys or telemarketing, often use No Caller ID to prevent recipients from calling back. 
3. Personal reasons: People sometimes use it to make a surprise call, or could want to keep their number private for personal reasons. 


How does No Caller ID work? 

Callers can block their number on a one-time basis by dialing a specific code before making the call. Or they could have their phone set to block their caller ID for all outgoing calls.  To place a single call with No Caller ID, simply dial *67, then the area code and number you are trying to reach. 

Different steps are required to turn on No Caller ID for all calls, depending on what device you use. 


To turn on No Caller ID on Android^™: 

1. Open the Phone app. 
2. Navigate to Settings > Supplementary services or Calls. 
3. In the Caller ID section, select Hide number or Never display. 


To turn on No Caller ID on iPhone^®: 

1. Go to Settings > Phone. 
2. Tap on Show My Caller ID and toggle it off. 

What does "Unknown Caller" mean? 

An "Unknown Caller" typically indicates that the network couldn’t retrieve the caller's information. This can happen for several reasons: 


Why would a call appear as unknown? 

1. Technical issues: Sometimes, technical glitches on the network can prevent the caller’s information from being transmitted. 
2. International calls: Calls from international numbers might not always carry the caller ID information due to differences in telecommunications systems. 
3. Unregistered numbers: The caller might be using a service or phone that doesn’t register a number, such as some VoIP services. 


How is it different from No Caller ID? 

Unlike No Caller ID, where the caller actively hides their number, Unknown Caller means the caller’s information is not available or not transmitted properly and your phone service provider is unable to identify the caller. There’s several reasons this can happen. For instance, the unknown caller may be listed in your contacts, but there's a technical issue with the network. Or you may just need to turn off a feature, like the HD Voice option. For assistance, reach out to your Digital Security Advisor. 


How to handle anonymous calls  

If you’re a Verizon Mobile Protect subscriber, you receive Call Filter Plus as an included benefit. Call Filter is a downloadable application, and the easiest, best way for Verizon users to screen and automatically block incoming spam calls.  

Call Filter Plus has all the screening and blocking features available with the standard Verizon Call Filter App. It also includes an additional Caller ID feature that can put a name to Unknown Callers, plus spam and risk meters so you can make threat assessments in real-time. Learn more about Verizon Call Filter Plus here. 

Now you know the difference between the two types, and have set up your Verizon Call Filter app to help avoid unwanted calls. Here are a few more tips on how to handle No Caller ID or Unknown Caller calls: 

1. Be cautious: Answering calls from Unknown Callers can sometimes be necessary, but exercise caution.  
2. Enable Do Not Disturb: You can set your phone to Do Not Disturb and allow calls only from your contacts. 
3. Screen the call: Let the call go to voicemail if you're unsure. If it's important, the caller will leave a message. 
4. Report spam: If you receive multiple spam calls, report them to your carrier or use a spam reporting app. 

Other ways to avoid iPhone spam: 

You can’t block unknown callers on an iPhone unless you use an application like Call Filter Plus. However,  you can silence them. Here’s how: 

Go to the Settings app > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. 

Remember, this may mean you miss legitimate calls from doctors offices or other callers. If it’s important, these callers will usually leave a message, so leave room on your voicemail. 

How to block Unknown Caller and No Caller ID calls on Android 

The Call Filter Plus application will work on your Android, too. But if you want to block all anonymous calls on your Android phone without the added benefit of real-time risk assessments and advanced Caller ID, you can do it through your device settings instead. Just follow these simple steps (which may vary slightly, depending on your device):  

1. Open your Phone app.  
2. Tap the menu icon to open a dropdown menu. It looks like 3 vertical dots. 
3. Select Settings > Block numbers > Block unknown callers. 
4. Turn Block unknown callers on. 

Understanding the difference between No Caller ID and Unknown Caller can help you decide how to handle these calls. Stay informed! And if you ever need more assistance keeping unwanted calls at bay, remember: Verizon Security Advisor experts are happy to help. Call or chat today.