Call forwarding, call waiting and hold: features worth knowing
Call forwarding redirects incoming calls to another number: always, when you are busy, when you do not answer or when you are unreachable. Related features are call waiting (a signal for a second call during a conversation), hold (pausing a call), conference calls and voicemail.
In plain words
Call forwarding is like leaving a note on your door: "I'm at Grandma's, come there." Useful if you wrote it yourself. But if a stranger put the note up, all your visitors go to them instead - that is how scammers intercept calls and text-message codes.
How it works
- Forwarding settings are stored on the operator's network.
- They are turned on in the call menu or with USSD codes.
- Call waiting shows a second incoming call during a conversation.
- Hold puts the first person on pause.
- A conference call joins several people into one conversation.
Where you'll see it
In the Phone app: Settings - Supplementary services/Call forwarding. Also via USSD codes: *21 (always forward) and ##002# (cancel all forwarding on most networks) - check the exact codes with your operator.
Does it matter when buying
It is useful when travelling (forwarding to your second number) or for work. For security, check that there is no forwarding you do not recognise, and never dial codes a stranger reads out to you.
Myths
- Myth: Call forwarding cannot be turned on without my knowledge. Reality: Scammers ask you to dial the code yourself - check carefully what you are dialling.
- Myth: Putting a call on hold is the same as muting. Reality: On hold, the other person hears silence or music and the call is paused.
FAQ
How do I check call forwarding?
Call settings - Call forwarding, or dial *#21#.
How do I cancel all forwarding?
Usually with the code ##002#.
Does call forwarding cost money?
Forwarded calls may be charged - check your plan.