Understanding Caller ID Mysteries: When a Contact Shows Up as 'Unknown' Despite Having Your Number
Have you ever been called by someone who has your phone number, only for the caller ID to show up as 'unknown'? This can be confusing and even frustrating. In this article, we'll explore why this happens and what you can do to resolve the issue.
Why Does a Person Who Has Your Phone Number Show Up as 'Unknown' When They Call But Shows Up as Their Name in a Voicemail?
When you receive a call from someone who has your contact information, your phone should know the caller even if they don't send a caller ID. Here are a few reasons why the caller might show up as 'unknown':
If They Send Their Caller ID:
If they are in your contact list, your phone will show their name. If they are not in your contact list, your phone will show their phone number. If they choose not to send their caller ID, your phone will display 'unknown'.If They Don't Send Their Caller ID:
Not sending a caller ID is often a privacy choice. This means that your phone will not recognize them, and therefore, they will show up as 'unknown'. You can adjust your phone settings to either always send a caller ID or choose on a per-call basis.
Not Picking Up Calls:
Personally, I don't pick up calls unless the caller sends a caller ID. If a call comes in and the caller ID is disabled, my phone will display 'unknown', and I won't answer.
Why Does a Contact Show Up as 'Unknown'?
There are several reasons why a contact might show up as 'unknown'. Here's a breakdown of the most common scenarios:
Privacy Settings:
Not wanting to be identified might be the reason. In such cases, they can disable their caller ID. This is a common privacy measure to ensure that the caller remains anonymous.
Incorrectly Registered Number:
Another reason could be that the caller's number is not registered with the caller ID companies correctly. Sometimes, this can lead to the caller ID showing a different name or an 'unknown' caller. This was the case with the author's phone number, which, when called, showed up as 'Janice' despite the caller not being named Janice.
When faced with this issue, the best course of action is to contact the phone company. However, the phone company may inform you that caller ID is a separate service provided by another company.
Incomplete Attention to Detail:
It could be a simple oversight. If the caller has used another phone number in the past, or a different phone number associated with their name, this might be the case. Their 'unknown' number is likely one they don't use anymore and forgotten, but your phone has retained the memory of it.
Hidden Identity After a Conflict:
Another possible scenario is that the caller borrowed a friend's phone to avoid being identified. This might happen after a heated argument or serious conflict. They want to ensure you will answer the call or leave a voicemail. In this case, their phone would record a voicemail because your phone doesn't recognize it as a contact and treats it as 'new'.
Brand Names and Simplified Communication:
Confusingly, the caller might have a name linked to their brand name used as a simplified version. For example, a brand that is formally called 'JaneThePerfectLitigator' might use the name 'Jane' for convenience in communications. This means they could show up as 'unknown' until you start communicating or until after a difficult breakup.
Understanding these scenarios can help you deal with caller ID mysteries and ensure you can communicate effectively with your contacts.