When people search “*67 or *69”, they are usually confused about how to hide their phone number or find out who called them.
These short dialing codes are part of Vertical Service Codes (VSCs) used in North America, and many users mix them up.
Some think *67 reveals a caller ID, while others believe *69 hides their number.
This confusion often leads to missed calls, privacy issues, or even dialing mistakes.
If you’ve ever wondered: *Should I dial *67 or 69 to block my number? or Which one lets me call back a missed number?—this article clears it all up.
We’ll explain the history of these codes, their uses in the US and Canada, common mistakes, and practical examples so you can confidently use the right code every time.
*67 or *69 – Quick Answer
- *Dial 67 before a number → This blocks your Caller ID, so the person you’re calling sees “Private” or “Unknown.”
- *Dial 69 after a missed call → This returns the last call you received, even if you didn’t pick up.
Example:
- If you want to hide your number before calling 555-1234, dial: *67 5551234.
- If you missed a call and want to call back without checking your call log, dial: *69.
The Origin of *67 and *69
The codes come from Vertical Service Codes (VSCs), a system introduced by telephone companies in North America during the 1970s–80s.
- *67 was assigned to Caller ID Block.
- *69 was assigned to Call Return.
They are short, easy-to-remember codes that work across most landlines and mobile carriers in the US and Canada. Over time, as Caller ID became standard, people often confused the two codes.
British English vs American English Usage
Unlike spelling differences, this is about regional telecom practices:
- In the US and Canada, *67 and *69 are widely used.
- In the UK and Commonwealth countries, different codes apply (like 141 to hide your number, instead of *67).
| Feature | US/Canada Code | UK/International Equivalent |
| Hide Caller ID | *67 | 141 |
| Call Back Last Number | *69 | 1471 |
Which Code Should You Use?
- If you’re in the US/Canada: use *67 to block your number, *69 to return the last call.
- If you’re in the UK/Commonwealth: use 141 to hide your number, 1471 to check who called last.
- For global calls: check your carrier’s website, as codes may vary outside North America.
Common Mistakes with *67 or *69
- Dialing after the number: Users sometimes dial 5551234 *67 instead of *67 5551234. The code must come first.
- *Thinking 69 blocks caller ID: In fact, *69 is only for returning the last call.
- Using codes internationally: They usually only work in North America.
*67 or *69 in Everyday Examples
- Emails & Blogs: Tech writers often explain how to block Caller ID using *67.
- News Reports: Crime stories sometimes mention suspects hiding calls with *67.
- Social Media: People share “life hacks” about using *67 for prank calls.
- Formal Writing: Telecom instructions list *69 as an official call-return service.
*67 or *69 – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows:
- *“67” is more popular in the US (privacy concerns).
- *“69” is more popular in Canada (call-back convenience).
- In the UK, “141” and “1471” dominate searches.
| Country | Popular Code | Usage Context |
| USA | *67 | Caller ID blocking |
| Canada | *69 | Call return |
| UK | 141 / 1471 | Hide number / Call return |
| Australia | 1831 / 1832 | Hide or reveal number |
FAQs about *67 or *69
*Q1. Does 67 work on cell phones?
Yes, but only in the US/Canada. Enter *67 before dialing the number.
*Q2. Is 67 permanent?
No. It only blocks your ID for that one call.
*Q3. Does 69 work if the call was private?
No. *69 cannot reveal numbers blocked by *67 or international calls.
**Q4. Can you use 67 or 69 outside North America?
Usually no. Other countries have different codes.
Q5. Is there a way to block Caller ID permanently?
Yes, through your phone settings or by asking your carrier.
*Q6. Is 67 free?
Yes, but some carriers may charge for *69 call-return.
*Q7. Can police trace 67 calls?
Yes. Law enforcement can still track numbers despite caller ID blocking.
Conclusion
The difference between **“67 or 69” is simple but often misunderstood. *67 blocks your Caller ID, while *69 lets you return the last incoming call. Their origin lies in North American telecom codes, and they are not universal worldwide. If you’re in the US or Canada, remember: use *67 for privacy, *69 for convenience. If you’re in the UK or elsewhere, know that different codes apply (like 141 or 1471).
By understanding these codes, you’ll avoid common mistakes, protect your privacy, and make better use of phone features. Whether you’re concerned about personal safety, avoiding spam, or simply calling back faster, knowing when to use *67 or *69 ensures you get it right.
