Guides

Does TextNow Show Your Name?

Published

3 months ago

September 15, 2025

Umair

Introduction

In today’s digital age, maintaining privacy while communicating is paramount. TextNow, a popular VoIP service, offers users the ability to make calls and send texts over Wi-Fi or cellular data. However, many users wonder: does TextNow display their name when they make a call or send a message? This article delves into how TextNow handles caller identification, the visibility of your name, and how you can manage your privacy settings.

Understanding Caller ID on TextNow

Caller ID is a feature that allows the recipient of a call to see the caller’s phone number and, in some cases, their name. With TextNow, the display of your name depends on several factors:

Recipient’s Contact List: If the person you’re calling has saved your TextNow number in their contacts with a specific name, that name will appear on their screen when you call.
TextNow Account Information: TextNow does not automatically associate your real name with your account. The name displayed to others is typically the one you’ve chosen when setting up your TextNow account.
Third-Party Databases: Some services may use third-party databases to display a name associated with a number. However, this is not always accurate and may not reflect your actual identity.

Does TextNow Show Your Real Name?

By default, TextNow does not display your real name to others. The name shown is the one you’ve selected during account setup or the one associated with your TextNow number in your contacts. If you’ve used your real name during registration, it might appear on the recipient’s caller ID, but this is not guaranteed.

Managing Your Privacy on TextNow

To enhance your privacy while using TextNow, consider the following steps:

Change Your Display Name:
- Open the TextNow app.
- Navigate to the settings menu.
- Select “Account” or “Profile”.
- Edit your display name to something anonymous if you prefer not to use your real name.
Use a Temporary Number:
- TextNow allows you to choose a new number.
- Opting for a temporary or anonymous number can prevent your real identity from being associated with your calls and messages.
Disable Caller ID:
- Some users prefer to hide their caller ID.
- While TextNow doesn’t natively support this feature, you can dial *67 before the phone number to block your number temporarily.

Common Concerns and Misconceptions

Caller ID Spoofing: Some individuals may attempt to spoof their caller ID to display a different name or number. This practice is generally discouraged and may be illegal depending on your jurisdiction.
Third-Party Applications: Be cautious of third-party applications that claim to change your caller ID. These apps may not be reliable and could compromise your privacy.

Conclusion

In summary, TextNow does not automatically display your real name when you make a call or send a message. The name shown is typically the one you’ve selected during account setup or the one associated with your TextNow number in your contacts. By managing your display name, using a temporary number, and being cautious of third-party applications, you can maintain a higher level of privacy while using TextNow.

FAQs

1. Does TextNow display my real name when I call someone?

No, TextNow does not automatically display your real name. The name shown is the one you’ve selected during account setup or the one associated with your TextNow number in your contacts.

2. How can I change the name displayed on my TextNow account?

You can change your display name by navigating to the settings menu in the TextNow app, selecting “Account” or “Profile,” and editing your display name.

3. Can I hide my caller ID on TextNow?

TextNow doesn’t natively support hiding your caller ID. However, you can dial *67 before the phone number to block your number temporarily.

4. Will my name appear if someone has saved my TextNow number in their contacts?

Yes, if someone has saved your TextNow number in their contacts with a specific name, that name will appear on their screen when you call.

5. Is it legal to spoof my caller ID on TextNow?

Caller ID spoofing is generally discouraged and may be illegal depending on your jurisdiction. It’s important to use such features responsibly and within the bounds of the law.