- Identify unknown callers with apps.
- Dialing codes for call tracing.
- Block unwanted calls efficiently.
Do you ever feel uneasy when you receive a text or call from an Unknown number? Instead of resorting to the awkward “who is this” text or turning to Google to identify the caller, there are some clever ways to unveil the mystery.
TikTok user Liz Perez recently shared a video outlining a strategy for dealing with unknown callers. Here’s how it works: when you receive a text from an unfamiliar number, popular mobile payment apps like Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, or PayPal can help you connect a name to that number.
The process is simple; just copy and paste the number into your preferred payment app, and it will reveal the sender’s identity. However, this method requires you to have an account with one of these apps, and the sender must also use their real name and number within the app.
But what if you’re concerned about your personal information being too accessible? Make sure to adjust your mobile payment app settings to prevent sharing your name and phone number with others. The steps may vary depending on the app; for instance, in Venmo, navigate to Settings, Friends and Social, and disable Phone contacts.
Moreover, both iPhone and Android devices offer settings to address this concern.
But what about blocked numbers?
You might recall from your past that dialing *67 conceals your number when making a call. Similarly, there are special codes to respond to unidentified callers.
One such code is *69, which traces the number of the last person who called you, even if it was an anonymous or hidden call. Armed with this number, you can block them on your phone to prevent further calls.
In more serious situations, like harassment, there’s another code: *57. This code not only provides you with the caller’s number and call details, similar to *69, but it also forwards this information to the police.
By making a *57 call, your phone service will create a log, making it easier for authorities to locate and deal with harassers. To maximize the effectiveness, contact the police promptly after a *57 call and provide them with a written record of calls from the harasser.
Be aware that your phone company may charge additional fees for these specialized calls, so check your plan to ensure support for these shortcuts.
If you own an iPhone, there’s an even more comprehensive solution available. You can use the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature to automatically block calls from numbers not in your Contacts list.
By following these tips, you can regain control over your phone and ensure that unwanted or mysterious calls don’t disrupt your peace of mind.
