Damon Mcknight
If you want to send a text message to someone in Australia without revealing your mobile number, there are several methods you can use. One way is to use a service such as Google Voice, Pinger, or TextNow, which allows you to choose a different phone number to send messages from. Alternatively, if you're texting from a mobile phone, you can dial #31# followed by the number you want to text, and your number will be withheld. However, this method may not work when texting short codes or when sending MMS messages.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Block your number on a call-by-call basis | Dial 1831 or #31# from a mobile, followed by the number you want to call |
| Block your number permanently | This is called an 'unlisted service' and can be enabled in My Telstra |
| Block your number when texting | Use TextNow or Pinger to text back and forth anonymously |
| Block your number when texting internationally | Use Google Voice, which includes SMS/MMS text messaging and calling number blocking |
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What You'll Learn
Blocking your number on a call-by-call basis
If you want to block your number on a call-by-call basis, you can do so from both your mobile and landline.
From a mobile, first dial #31# followed by the number you want to call. Your number will be withheld. To check the network default setting, dial *#31#* in the Phone app and tap the call button. You will then see a pop-up message that tells you whether your caller ID is restricted or unrestricted by your mobile provider.
From a landline (or home phone), first dial 1831, followed by the number you wish to call. Your caller ID won't be displayed.
Please note that your number will always be displayed and cannot be blocked when sending an SMS (text message) or MMS (photo/video/audio message).
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Using a service like Google Voice
Google Voice is a service offered by Google that includes Internet telephone calling, SMS/MMS text messaging, voicemail, spam call/text filtering, calling number blocking, and related features. It is available in two versions: one for consumers and one for business use.
To block a number from your computer, launch your preferred web browser and access the Google Voice site. In your call log, tap the number you want to block. Then, in the number screen's top-right corner, tap the three dots. Select the "People & Options" item. On the "People & Options" screen, tap the "Block [Number]" option. Tap "Block" on the prompt, and your chosen number is now blocked.
If you don't want someone contacting you on your Google Voice number, you can block that person's number to prevent their calls and text messages from coming in. When you block a number, Google Voice blocks all calls and texts from that number. That person will hear a "Number not in service" message when trying to dial your Google Voice number. This should effectively solve recurring spam problems.
Later, if you change your mind, you can quickly and easily unblock a number in your account. To unblock a blocked number, reach the "People & Options" screen for that number and choose the "Unblock [Number]" option. Then, select that number, click the three dots, and choose "Unblock Number." Hit "Unblock" in the prompt.
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Using a free text messaging website
If you want to block your mobile number when texting Australia, you can use a free text messaging website. One such website is textem.net. This site allows you to send anonymous texts without downloading an app or using your email.
To send a text via textem.net, you need to know the recipient's phone number and mobile carrier. Visit the website and enter the recipient's phone number, selecting their mobile carrier from the drop-down menu. Type your message, keeping it under 155 characters to avoid splitting the message into two texts. Click the "I'm not a robot" checkbox, then select "I agree with the terms of use." Finally, click "Send Message."
Another option for sending anonymous texts is Send Anonymous. This website offers a pay-as-you-go option or the option to buy bulk credit blocks. You can also attach pictures, videos, audio, or PDFs to your messages. Before sending an anonymous message, it is recommended to send a test message to yourself to see how the system works.
Additionally, you can send anonymous texts via email if you know the recipient's wireless network. For example, to send a text to an AT&T number, use [email protected]. Texts sent to customers of Verizon would go to [email protected]. You can also create a new email address and send anonymous texts by typing the phone number plus the @ address, followed by your message. Keep the email under 160 characters, and do not include pictures, as they may not be received on all wireless networks.
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Using an instant messaging service
If you want to block your mobile number when texting in Australia, one option is to use an instant messaging service. This can be done in several ways.
Use a messaging app
One way to block your number when texting is to use a messaging app that allows you to choose a random phone number. Apps like TextNow, Textfree, and Pinger offer this feature. With these apps, you can sign in or create an account, choose a phone number, and then send text messages without revealing your actual mobile number. These apps are available on iOS and Android platforms and provide a degree of anonymity when texting.
Use a burner number app
Another option is to use a burner number app, such as Text Burner or Burner. These apps allow you to select temporary or disposable phone numbers, which you can use to send anonymous text messages. Text Burner offers Australian numbers, while Burner provides a one-number free trial and the option to purchase additional numbers.
Use email
Additionally, you can send anonymous texts via email if the recipient's wireless network supports this feature. For example, to send a text to an AT&T number, you would use [phone number]@txt.att.net. Similar formats apply to other carriers such as Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile. By creating a new email address and sending texts to the recipient's phone number followed by the @ address, you can maintain anonymity.
Use instant messaging services
Instant messaging services like AIM or iChat (now discontinued) also allow you to send anonymous text messages. By signing up for a fake account, you can use the "Send SMS" feature to text any phone number while keeping your identity hidden.
It's important to note that while these methods can provide a level of anonymity, they may not always guarantee complete privacy. Additionally, some services may have limitations or restrictions, so it's essential to review the features and terms of use before selecting a method that suits your needs.
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Blocking your number permanently
If you want to block your mobile number when texting in Australia, you can do so on a call-by-call basis or permanently.
To permanently block your mobile number when texting in Australia, you can contact your mobile service provider. They will be able to block your SIM card, preventing it from being used in any other phone. You can also request that they block your handset, which will stop it from being used with any SIM card. This service is typically free of charge, and the block can be lifted if you change your mind or if your handset is found and returned to you.
Blocking your number on a call-by-call basis
If you want to block your number on a call-by-call basis, you can do so by dialling a code before dialling the number you wish to text. This method is temporary and will only block your number for that particular text conversation. To do this, dial #31# from your mobile phone, followed by the number you want to text.
It is important to note that this method will not block your number when sending SMS or MMS messages. Your number will always be displayed and cannot be blocked when sending these types of messages. Additionally, your number will still be visible when calling certain services, such as emergency services or telco providers.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a service like TextNow or Pinger to text anonymously. You can also sign up for a fake account with an instant messaging service like AIM or iChat to send anonymous texts.
To temporarily block your caller ID, dial 1831 (or #31# from a mobile) and then dial the number you want to call.
Telstra refers to permanent caller ID blocking as an 'unlisted service', which you can enable in My Telstra.
To check the network default setting, dial *#31# in the Phone app and tap the call button. You’ll then see a pop-up message that tells you whether your caller ID is restricted or unrestricted.
