Lexi Webster
A silent number, also known as an unlisted number, is a phone number that does not show up on the phone of the person you're calling. This can be requested when signing up with a telco, and some telcos may charge a fee for this service. There are some circumstances where a silent number will always be disclosed, such as when a call is made to emergency services. Additionally, telemarketers may still call silent numbers if they dial at random or find the number online. To stop telemarketing calls, you can register your number on the Do Not Call Register.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Silent number, unlisted number, silent line |
| Description | A phone number that does not show up on the phone you call |
| Exceptions | Some telcos, emergency call services (000, 112) |
| How to get | Ask for a silent number when signing up to a telco |
| Fee | Some telcos may charge an ongoing fee |
| How to display | Dial 1832 or *31# from a mobile, then the number |
| Caller ID | Can be blocked by contacting your telco |
| SMS/MMS | Number will always be displayed and cannot be blocked |
| Unauthorized disclosure | Provider must rectify the disclosure as soon as possible |
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What You'll Learn
How to get a silent number
A silent number, also known as an unlisted number, is a telephone number that is not listed in telephone books or phone directories. In Australia, it is also referred to as a silent line.
- Choose a telecommunications provider (telco): When choosing a telco, it is important to shop around and inquire about their silent number offerings. Some telcos may offer silent numbers for free, while others may charge an ongoing fee.
- Request a silent number: When signing up for a new service or making changes to an existing one, ask your provider for a silent number. They are obligated to clearly state whether they can provide this service and disclose any associated costs.
- Understand the limitations: While a silent number provides privacy, it is important to know that your number may still be accessible in certain situations. For example, your number will be displayed when calling emergency services or when calling certain telcos. Additionally, if you make your number public, such as by putting it on a flyer or online, it may become accessible to telemarketers or others.
- Register on the Do Not Call Register: To further enhance your privacy, register your silent number on Australia's Do Not Call Register. This will prevent telemarketers from calling your number. However, it is important to note that this will not stop scammers, as they often operate outside the law.
- Manage your expectations: Even with a silent number, you may still receive unwanted calls or messages. Additionally, if you wish to make your number visible for specific calls, you can dial 1832 (or *31# from a mobile) before the number you want to call.
By following these steps, you can obtain and effectively manage a silent number in Australia.
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When a silent number is disclosed
A silent number, also known as an unlisted number, is a phone number that does not show up on the phone you call. However, there are certain exceptions to this. For instance, when calling some telcos or dialling emergency services such as 000, your silent number will be displayed. In such cases, your telco will not block your silent number from showing up.
If your silent number has been disclosed without your consent, there are steps you can take to rectify the situation. Firstly, you should complain to your telco, and if they are unable to resolve the issue, you can contact the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will consider the relevant laws, industry practices, and fairness in all the circumstances when dealing with silent line complaints.
In the case of an unauthorised disclosure, the provider is obligated to rectify the situation as soon as possible. If the disclosure puts your safety at risk, it is recommended that you take immediate steps to protect yourself, such as finding alternative temporary accommodation. The Ombudsman may treat your complaint as urgent if they believe that adhering to standard timeframes may endanger your health or safety.
To ensure the privacy of your silent number, avoid making it public, for example, by posting it on a flyer or online. Additionally, be aware that you may still receive telemarketing calls even with a silent number. To stop these, you can register your number on the Do Not Call Register, which telemarketers are required to follow.
If your silent number is displayed when calling a business, you can consider making a privacy complaint to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.
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How to temporarily block your number
A silent phone number, or unlisted number, is a type of phone number that does not show up on the phone you call. In Australia, you can request a silent number when signing up with a telco. Some telcos may charge a fee for this service.
Even if you have a silent number, your number may still be disclosed in certain circumstances, such as when calling emergency services or when calling certain telcos. Additionally, if you make your number public, such as by putting it on a flyer or online, telemarketers may obtain your number.
To temporarily block your number on a call-by-call basis, you can dial 1831 from a landline or #31# from a mobile, followed by the number you want to call. This will hide your caller ID, also known as Calling Number Display (CND), for that particular call. However, it's important to note that call centres may use Automatic Number Identification (ANI) software that can override call blocking. Additionally, your number will always be displayed when sending text or multimedia messages.
If you wish to permanently block your caller ID for all calls, you will need to contact your telco and request this service. They may be able to assist you in blocking your number or provide alternative solutions, such as blocking your SIM card or handset to prevent unauthorised use. Additionally, you can register your number on the Do Not Call Register to stop telemarketing calls.
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How to stop telemarketing calls
If you want to put a stop to telemarketing calls in Australia, you can register your number with the Do Not Call Register (DNCR). This service is governed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) and allows Australian consumers to opt out of receiving telemarketing calls. You can register your home, mobile or fax number for free via the ACMA website or by calling 1300 792 958. After registering, telemarketers have 30 days to check their lists and stop calling you.
However, it's important to note that registering with the DNCR does not guarantee that you will stop receiving all telemarketing calls. For example, you may still receive calls from exempt organisations, such as charities, and the DNCR is unlikely to stop scam calls. In addition, some people have reported that telemarketers continue to call numbers on the register, and that charities are exempt.
To further reduce unwanted telemarketing calls, it's recommended that you do not answer calls from unknown numbers. If you do answer a call and engage with the caller, your number may be marked as 'active' and you could receive more calls. If you are expecting a call from an unknown number, you can pick up, but otherwise, it's best to let it go to voicemail. If it's important, the caller will leave a message.
You can also block numbers manually on your device if you identify them as spam. Additionally, third-party spam apps are available that can automatically block spam calls by comparing the caller's number to a list of phone numbers in the app.
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What to do if your number is disclosed without your consent
In Australia, individuals have a right to privacy and control over their personal information, including their phone numbers. However, it can be frustrating and concerning if your number is shared without your permission, leading to unwanted calls and potential privacy risks. Here are the steps you can take to address this situation and protect your privacy:
First, try to identify how your number was disclosed. This can help you understand the intent and source of the disclosure and guide your next steps. If you suspect a particular individual or organization shared your details, consider contacting them directly to express your concerns and request that they remove your number from their database or distribution lists. Explain that you did not consent to your number being shared, and ask them to respect your privacy in the future.
If the source of the disclosure is unclear or you are receiving unwanted calls or messages from unknown sources, you can consider changing your number and registering it as a 'silent number'. A silent number, also known as a 'private number' or 'unlisted number', is a telephone service feature that removes your details from public phone directories and prevents your information from being disclosed through standard directory assistance services. This adds an extra layer of privacy and can help reduce unsolicited calls. There is typically a small fee for this service, and you can contact your telephone service provider to request it.
Additionally, you may want to report the unauthorized disclosure of your number to the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC). The OAIC is an independent agency that investigates and resolves privacy complaints and can take action against organizations that mishandle personal information. They can provide guidance and support and may be able to help resolve the issue, especially if it involves a breach of privacy laws.
Finally, be vigilant about protecting your personal information moving forward. Regularly review your privacy settings on all your accounts and be cautious about sharing your phone number or personal details with others. Use secure methods of communication, especially when transmitting sensitive information, and be wary of unsolicited messages or calls that might be attempting to phish for personal details.
By taking these steps, you can help mitigate the impacts of your number being disclosed without your consent and improve your overall privacy and security online and offline.
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Frequently asked questions
A silent number, or unlisted number, is a phone number that does not show up on the phone of the person you are calling.
When you sign up with a telco, you can ask for a silent number. Some telcos may charge an ongoing fee for this service.
No, your number will always show up when calling emergency services. This includes calls to Triple Zero (000) and other emergency numbers such as 112.
Yes, to make your silent number show up, dial 1832 (*31# from a mobile) before dialling the number you want to call.
