A telephone communication from which the caller’s identifying information is intentionally blocked is a call with restricted caller ID. This action prevents the recipient’s phone from displaying the caller’s number or name, typically showing “Private Number,” “Blocked,” or “Unknown” instead. As an example, an individual may choose to activate this feature when contacting a customer service line to maintain privacy regarding their personal phone number.
The capacity to withhold one’s phone number from display offers a layer of security and control over personal information. Historically, this function arose from concerns about privacy and the potential for unsolicited calls or unwanted contact. The ability to hide one’s number can be crucial for individuals in professions requiring frequent calls to unfamiliar parties, where maintaining a degree of separation between personal and professional life is desired. Furthermore, it empowers individuals to manage the information they share during phone conversations.
