How to Call with a Private Number in Kenya

Learn how to call with a private number in Kenya using simple steps. Keep your identity hidden for privacy or business reasons.

Summary

Calling with a private number in Kenya is a simple process that allows you to maintain privacy when contacting others. Whether you’re protecting your personal information or managing business calls, this guide walks you through all available methods—temporary and permanent—on Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom networks.

Introduction

In today’s hyper-connected world, privacy is becoming more of a luxury than a given. In Kenya, mobile phone usage is at an all-time high, with millions relying on Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom networks for both personal and business communication. But what if you need to make a phone call without revealing your identity?

There are many valid reasons why someone might want to call with a private number in Kenya. From safeguarding personal privacy to managing professional calls discreetly, keeping your number hidden is a legitimate need. Fortunately, Kenyan mobile networks offer a few ways to do this safely and easily.

This guide explores step-by-step instructions for hiding your number, why you might need to do it, legal considerations, and tips for responsible use.

How to Call with a Private Number in Kenya

There are two main ways to hide your caller ID in Kenya:

1. Using the #31# Prefix for One-Time Calls

This is the most common and easiest method.

How it works:

• Dial #31# followed by the number you want to call.

• Example: #31#0722123456

• When the recipient receives your call, they will see “Private Number” or “Unknown Caller”.

Advantages:

• No permanent change to your settings.

• Works instantly.

• Supported on all major networks (Safaricom, Airtel, Telkom).

Limitations:

• Must be dialed every time you want to hide your number.

• Some recipients may not answer unknown numbers.

2. Changing Caller ID Settings on Your Phone

This method hides your number for all outgoing calls.

On Android Devices:

1. Go to the Phone app.

2. Tap the three dots (menu) > Settings > Calls.

3. Tap Additional Settings > Caller ID.

4. Select Hide Number.

On iPhones (iOS):

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap Phone > Show My Caller ID.

3. Toggle off the switch.

Advantages:

• No need to type #31# every time.

• Ideal for frequent private calls.

Limitations:

• May not be supported on all networks (especially for some older devices).

• In some cases, the network may override your settings and still show your number.

Network-Specific Notes

Safaricom

• #31# works reliably.

• Permanent hiding through settings may be overridden by network security protocols.

• Contact Safaricom customer care (100) to request a network-level private ID if needed for business.

Airtel Kenya

• Supports #31# for one-time private calls.

• Caller ID settings on Android and iOS generally function well.

Telkom Kenya

• #31# supported on most Telkom SIMs.

• Permanent hiding may not work on all devices—manual prefixing is more reliable.

Why Call with a Private Number?

✅ Personal Privacy

You might not want everyone—especially strangers or short-term contacts—to have your personal number.

✅ Professional Discretion

Freelancers, agents, or business owners may want to separate work from personal life without using two phones.

✅ Emergency or Sensitive Calls

In situations requiring confidentiality (e.g., whistleblowing, reporting issues), calling anonymously may feel safer.

Legal Considerations in Kenya

Is it Legal to Call with a Private Number?

Yes, it is legal to call with a private number in Kenya as long as:

• The call is not for harassment, fraud, or any unlawful activity.

• You comply with Kenya’s Communication Authority regulations.

Note: Using a hidden number to threaten, scam, or mislead others is a criminal offense under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act of 2018.

Tip: Keep a Record

If you’re using a private number for business or sensitive matters, keep records of your calls for your own protection.

Best Practices and Etiquette

✅ Be Transparent When Needed

If you’re calling someone who may not answer a private number, consider sending a heads-up text (with your ID) beforehand.

🚫 Don’t Overuse

Too many calls from a private number can seem suspicious. Use the feature responsibly to avoid being blocked or ignored.

🔄 Consider Using a Secondary Number

Apps like Google Voice or cloud-based lines (where available in Kenya) can offer an alternative to constantly hiding your number.

Alternative Methods and Tools

While #31# and phone settings are the main options, here are some additional tools:

1. Call Masking Services

Some customer service centers or delivery companies use third-party services to mask both caller and recipient numbers. This is more enterprise-level but growing in popularity.

2. VOIP and Internet-Based Apps

Apps like Skype, Google Voice, or Viber allow custom caller ID settings, though they require data and aren’t always compatible with local Kenyan lines.

User Experiences and Reviews

👤 Jane M., Nairobi

“I run a small e-commerce store and use the #31# trick when calling clients for delivery confirmations. It helps maintain boundaries.”

👤 Kevin O., Kisumu

“I once got too many spam calls after sharing my number publicly. Since then, I only unhide my number for close contacts.”

👤 Amina R., Mombasa

“I used the Android setting to hide my number, but my Safaricom SIM still showed the ID. The #31# method worked instead.”

Pros (based on user feedback):

• Easy to use

• No need for apps or subscriptions

• Preserves anonymity

Cons:

• May reduce call pickup rate

• Can’t be used for international calls on some networks

Final Verdict

Calling with a private number in Kenya is a practical tool for those seeking privacy, professionalism, or discretion. Whether you use the #31# method for occasional use or hide your ID through phone settings, the process is accessible and effective.

Ideal for:

• Freelancers and small business owners

• Individuals concerned about privacy

• People making sensitive or investigative calls

Just remember to use this feature ethically and legally.

FAQs on How to Call with a Private Number in Kenya

Q: Is calling with a private number free in Kenya?
A: Yes, both #31# and caller ID settings are free to use on Kenyan mobile networks.

Q: Can I hide my number permanently in Kenya?
A: Yes, through phone settings or by contacting your network provider, although results vary by network.

Q: Why isn’t my number hiding when I use the settings option?
A: Some networks override this feature. Use #31# as a more reliable alternative.

Q: Can I still receive calls if my number is private?
A: Yes, hiding your number does not affect incoming calls.

Q: Is there a way to unblock my number if I changed settings?
A: Yes, just reverse the settings or dial *31# on most phones to unhide your number.

Related: How to Activate Call Forwarding on Phone in Kenya

Final Thoughts on How to Call with a Private Number in Kenya

The ability to call with a private number in Kenya is not only convenient but also essential in many modern communication scenarios. Whether you’re a business owner, a concerned citizen, or someone who just values their privacy, this guide provides all the tools you need to make private calls confidently and legally.

Use the options wisely, respect others’ comfort, and stay within the legal boundaries of responsible communication.