Many iPhone users are curious about various hidden codes that can unlock useful information about their devices. One such code is *#21#, a feature that has often been misunderstood. If you’ve ever wondered what dialing *#21# does on an iPhone, this article will give you all the answers.
What Does *#21# Do?
Dialing *#21# on your iPhone is a quick way to check whether your call forwarding settings are enabled. It does not activate or change anything on your phone, but it simply displays the current status of call forwarding. This feature can be useful to verify whether your calls are being redirected to another number without your knowledge.
Some users mistakenly believe that *#21# can reveal if their phones have been hacked or tapped by third parties. However, this is not true. It only shows information related to call forwarding but does not indicate any security breaches.
How to Use *#21# on Your iPhone
The process of using this code is quite simple. Here’s how you can do it:
- Open the Phone app on your iPhone.
- Go to the Keypad tab.
- Enter *#21#.
- Press the Call button.
After completing these steps, a pop-up window will appear displaying the current call forwarding status for different categories such as voice calls, data calls, and SMS. If all options show Not forwarded, it means your calls and messages are not being redirected.
Does *#21# Work on All iPhones?
Yes, *#21# works on most iPhones regardless of the model. However, the response you get may depend on your carrier. Some mobile service providers block certain shortcodes or replace them with their own implementations. If dialing *#21# does not produce any response, it’s best to check directly with your carrier’s customer support.
Common Misconceptions About *#21#
There are several myths circulating online regarding the use of this code. Let’s clear up some of the most common misconceptions:
1. *#21# Does Not Show If Your Phone Is Being Monitored
Many users believe that dialing this code will reveal whether their conversations are being intercepted by hackers or the government. This is not true. It is only designed to check call forwarding settings.
2. It Does Not Disable Call Forwarding
If you find that your calls are being forwarded, dialing *#21# will not disable it. To turn off call forwarding, you would need to use a different code or change the setting manually in your iPhone’s settings.
3. Different Networks May Produce Different Results
Some carriers provide information slightly differently when you use this code. In some cases, they may require an alternative method to check or disable call forwarding.
How to Disable Call Forwarding on iPhone
If *#21# shows that your calls are being forwarded and you wish to disable it, follow these simple steps:
- Go to Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on Phone.
- Select Call Forwarding.
- If the option is turned on, toggle it off.
You can also disable all call forwarding by dialing ##21# and pressing the Call button.
Why Is *#21# Useful?
This code might seem simple, but it can be quite useful in different situations:
- Security checks: It helps in verifying whether someone else has tampered with your call settings.
- Preventing missed calls: If some of your calls are not reaching you, checking call forwarding settings through *#21# can help diagnose the issue.
- Travel convenience: If you’ve enabled call forwarding while traveling, this code helps check the status when you return.
Final Thoughts
*#21# is a handy code for iPhone users who want to quickly check their call forwarding settings. While it does not tell you if your phone is being monitored or hacked, it can still provide useful information to ensure that your calls are not being forwarded unknowingly. If you ever suspect unusual call behavior, this code is a good first step in diagnosing potential issues.
Make sure to use it whenever necessary, and if you find any unexpected call forwarding settings enabled, contact your mobile carrier for further assistance.
