Does *67 work in Canada?

Does *67 Work in Canada? Unveiling the Truth Behind Anonymous Calls

In Canada, the desire for privacy often leads to questions about caller ID blocking services. One common method, using the 67 prefix before a phone number (67 followed by the number you’re calling), is widely known but its effectiveness in Canada requires clarification. While the *67 prefix, or similar variations like 1167, are often associated with blocking your caller ID, the reality is more nuanced.

The short answer is: it depends. The success of *67 in masking your caller ID in Canada hinges on several factors:

• Your Phone Service Provider: The most critical factor. While many major providers support this feature, not all do. Some carriers may have abandoned or modified their support for this older method, opting for other in-app or account-based caller ID blocking solutions. Smaller, independent providers may also not offer this functionality. Checking with your specific provider is crucial. They can confirm whether *67 works with their network and if there are any alternative methods for anonymous calling.

• The Receiving Party’s Phone System: Even if your provider supports 67, the recipient’s system could still display your number. Some business phone systems, VoIP services, and advanced call handling features may bypass or ignore the 67 prefix. This is particularly true for businesses employing call-tracking software or advanced identification technologies.

• Emergency Services: It’s critically important to note that using *67 to mask your number when contacting emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) is generally discouraged and may impede their ability to respond effectively. Your location and identity are vital information in emergencies.

*Beyond 67: Modern Alternatives for Caller ID Privacy in Canada**

Instead of relying on the potentially unreliable *67 method, Canadians seeking caller ID privacy often have more robust options available through their phone providers:

• Caller ID Blocking through your Account Settings: Many Canadian phone providers offer built-in settings within your online account to block your caller ID on a per-call or permanent basis. This method is generally more reliable than using prefixes like *67.

• Mobile App Features: Many mobile phone apps provide call-blocking and privacy features that allow you to mask your number on an individual call basis.

• VoIP Services: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services often incorporate advanced privacy features, including the ability to choose to display your number or use a different number altogether.

In conclusion, while 67 might* work for masking your caller ID in Canada, its reliability is questionable. For guaranteed caller ID privacy, contacting your phone service provider directly and exploring their dedicated privacy settings or utilizing modern alternative methods is strongly recommended. Remember to always prioritize safety and efficiency, particularly in emergency situations, and avoid methods that might hinder crucial information exchange.