In the world of telecommunications, it’s not uncommon for users to wonder about the costs associated with certain features and services. One such feature that has sparked curiosity is Star 67, a call blocking and anonymity service offered by Verizon. The question on everyone’s mind is: does Star 67 cost money on Verizon? In this article, we’ll delve into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to this burning question.
The Basics of Star 67
Before we dive into the cost aspect, let’s first understand what Star 67 is and how it works. Star 67 is a feature offered by Verizon that allows users to block their phone number from being displayed on caller ID. This means that when you call someone, your phone number will appear as “Private” or “Blocked” instead of your actual number. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who value their privacy or need to make calls to unknown numbers.
In addition to call blocking, Star 67 also enables users to reject calls from private or blocked numbers. This feature is handy for those who receive frequent spam or unwanted calls.
Does Star 67 Cost Money on Verizon?
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Star 67, let’s address the question at hand. The answer is a resounding no, Star 67 does not cost money on Verizon. This feature is included at no additional charge for Verizon customers, making it a convenient and free way to maintain your privacy while making calls.
However, it’s essential to note that while Star 67 itself is free, some Verizon plans may have limited calling minutes or data allowances. If you exceed these limits, you may incur additional charges. Nevertheless, the Star 67 feature itself is complimentary and won’t add to your overall bill.
How to Use Star 67 on Verizon
Using Star 67 on Verizon is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Dial *67 before making a call to block your phone number from being displayed on caller ID.
- Enter the phone number you want to call, followed by the # sign.
- Wait for the call to connect, and your number will be displayed as “Private” or “Blocked” on the recipient’s caller ID.
It’s worth noting that Star 67 only works for outgoing calls. If you want to block incoming calls from private or blocked numbers, you’ll need to use a different feature, such as Verizon’s Caller ID Block service.
Benefits of Using Star 67 on Verizon
Using Star 67 on Verizon offers several benefits, including:
Enhanced Privacy
By blocking your phone number, you can maintain your privacy and prevent others from seeing your number. This is particularly useful for individuals who work in sensitive industries or have concerns about their personal information being shared.
Reduced Spam Calls
With Star 67, you can reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. Since private or blocked numbers are often associated with spam calls, using this feature can help minimize these pesky calls.
Increased Convenience
Star 67 is a convenient feature that allows you to make calls without worrying about your number being displayed. This is especially useful for individuals who need to make frequent calls to unknown numbers.
Limitations of Star 67 on Verizon
While Star 67 is a valuable feature, it’s not without its limitations. Some of the key limitations include:
Inconsistent Compatibility
Star 67 may not work with all phone types or devices. For instance, some older phones or landlines may not support this feature.
Emergency Calls
When you use Star 67, your phone number will still be displayed to emergency services, such as 911. This is a safety feature to ensure that emergency responders can contact you in case of an emergency.
Business Calls
Star 67 may not be suitable for business calls, as it can make it difficult for customers or clients to return your call. In such cases, it’s better to use a business phone number or a separate line.
Alternatives to Star 67 on Verizon
If you find that Star 67 doesn’t meet your needs, there are alternative features and services you can use to maintain your privacy or block unwanted calls. Some of these alternatives include:
Verizon’s Caller ID Block
Verizon’s Caller ID Block is a feature that allows you to block your phone number from being displayed on caller ID for all outgoing calls. This feature is available on select plans and may incur additional charges.
Third-Party Call Blocking Apps
There are several third-party call blocking apps available that can help you block unwanted calls and maintain your privacy. Some popular options include Truecaller, Hiya, and Nomorobo.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Star 67 is a valuable feature offered by Verizon that allows users to block their phone number from being displayed on caller ID. The best part? It’s free and doesn’t cost any additional money. By using Star 67, you can maintain your privacy, reduce spam calls, and enjoy increased convenience. While it may have some limitations, it’s a convenient and effective way to take control of your phone calls.
Does using *67 to block caller ID cost extra on Verizon?
Using 67 to block caller ID on Verizon does not cost extra. This feature is included in all Verizon plans, and you won’t be charged any additional fees for using it. You can use 67 as many times as you want without incurring any extra costs.
However, it’s worth noting that using *67 will only block your caller ID for the specific call you’re making. If you want to block your caller ID permanently, you’ll need to contact Verizon customer service to set up a permanent block. This may require an additional fee, depending on your plan and the laws in your area.
How do I use *67 to block my caller ID on Verizon?
To use 67 to block your caller ID on Verizon, simply dial 67 before entering the phone number you want to call. For example, if you want to call 555-1234 and block your caller ID, you would dial *67-555-1234. Once you’ve dialed the number, the recipient’s caller ID will show “private” or “unknown” instead of your phone number.
It’s important to note that using 67 will not block your caller ID for toll-free numbers, 911 calls, or calls to emergency services. Additionally, some businesses and organizations may still be able to see your phone number even if you use 67.
Can I use *67 to block caller ID on international calls?
Unfortunately, using 67 to block caller ID on international calls may not work in all cases. The effectiveness of 67 on international calls depends on the country and phone network you’re calling. Some countries may not support *67, or the recipient’s phone network may not recognize the block.
If you need to make international calls and want to block your caller ID, it’s best to contact Verizon customer service for assistance. They can help you set up a permanent block or provide alternative solutions for blocking your caller ID on international calls.
Will using *67 affect my call quality or billing?
Using *67 to block caller ID on Verizon will not affect your call quality or billing. The call will be routed through the same networks and switches as any other call, and you’ll be billed at the same rate as you would for a normal call. The only difference is that the recipient’s caller ID will show “private” or “unknown” instead of your phone number.
It’s worth noting that using *67 may affect the accuracy of certain call features, such as call forwarding or call waiting. However, this is unlikely to cause any significant issues with your call quality or billing.
Can I use *67 on my Verizon business phone?
Yes, you can use 67 to block caller ID on your Verizon business phone. The process is the same as using 67 on a personal phone – simply dial 67 before entering the phone number you want to call. However, if you’re using a company-issued phone or a business account, you should check with your IT department or phone administrator to see if there are any specific policies or restrictions on using 67.
Keep in mind that some business phone plans may have different features or restrictions than personal plans, so it’s always a good idea to check with your phone administrator or Verizon customer service to confirm.
Is *67 a universal code or just for Verizon?
67 is not unique to Verizon – it’s a universal code that works on most phone networks in the United States. This means you can use 67 to block caller ID on other carriers, such as AT&T, T-Mobile, or Sprint, as well as on landline phones.
However, it’s worth noting that not all phone networks or countries may support 67. If you’re traveling internationally or using a different phone network, you should check with your carrier to see if 67 is supported.
Can I use *67 to block caller ID on apps or VoIP calls?
*67 is a feature that only works on traditional phone networks, not on apps or VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls. If you’re making calls using an app or VoIP service, such as Skype or WhatsApp, you’ll need to use a different method to block your caller ID.
Check with the app or VoIP service provider to see if they offer a feature to block caller ID. Some apps or services may have built-in features or settings that allow you to block your caller ID, while others may not offer this feature at all.