Masking your number with a carrier code or system toggle carries a practical downside: people rarely answer unknown callers. Robocall filtering tools and iOS features like "Silence Unknown Callers" route masked lines straight to voicemail. If you need people to pick up without handing out your personal number, an alternate virtual number is a much better choice.
| Method | Cost Tier | Display on Recipient Screen | Two-Way SMS Support | Answer Rate Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| *67 Prefix Code | Free | "Private" / "No Caller ID" | No | Low (10%, 20%) |
| OS Settings Masking | Free | "Private Caller" / "Restricted" | No | Low (10%, 20%) |
| Google Voice Alternate Line | Free (US accounts) | Legitimate Secondary Ten-Digit Number | Yes | High (70%, 85%) |
| Burner Number Apps | $4, $15 / month | Disposable Ten-Digit Local Line | Yes | High (70%, 85%) |
A Google Voice alternate line supplies an autonomous ten-digit phone number that routes incoming audio through your cell network or local Wi-Fi. It lets you send texts, screen incoming calls, and separate your real number from everyday public interactions. Specialized burner number apps like Burner, Hushed, or Cloaked go a step further. They let you discard and regenerate numbers on demand, keeping your actual SIM card completely unlisted.
