141 is part of the UK numbering system rather than an optional extra, and it still works in 2026 on landlines, including digital landlines, and on mobile networks. When it seems not to work, the cause is usually one of a handful of settings or the person you're calling.

How to use 141

  • Landline or mobile: dial 141, then the full number, for example 141 07700 900123.
  • From contacts: edit the number or copy it into the keypad with 141 in front, because most phones can't add a prefix to a contact automatically.
  • International numbers: 141 is for calls to UK numbers; hiding your number abroad depends on your network, so use your phone's caller ID setting instead.

Hide your number on every call instead

  • iPhone: Settings, then Apps, then Phone, then Show My Caller ID, and switch it off (on older iOS versions, Settings, then Phone). Some networks control this setting, in which case it's greyed out and you need to ask your network.
  • Android: in the Phone app, open Settings, then Calls or Supplementary services, then Caller ID, and choose Hide number. Menu names vary by manufacturer.
  • Landline: ask your provider to withhold your number permanently. Then use 1470 before a number when you want it shown.

Why a call with 141 might not work

  1. The person rejects withheld calls. Many people and businesses use anonymous call rejection or send withheld calls to voicemail.
  2. A typo in the prefix, such as dialling 1410 or adding a space the phone doesn't accept.
  3. Calling emergency services. 141 doesn't hide your number from 999 or 112, and it shouldn't.
  4. Some services require caller ID, such as certain bank and verification lines.

Our take

Withholding your number is sensible when you need privacy, but it has a cost: more and more people don't answer withheld calls because so many are spam. If you need someone to pick up, a visible number and a quick text first usually work better.

Hidden numbers are still visible to the networks, as explained in can 141 be traced. If you're on the receiving end, see what it means if a private number calls you.