What is *# 21 used for?

What Does *#21# Do on Your Phone?

Ever wondered what those mysterious codes like *#21# actually do? Contrary to some myths floating around, this isn't a secret spy tool or a hack to catch hackers red-handed. In reality, it's a simple and useful feature built into most mobile phones.

When you dial *#21# and press the call button, your device checks the current status of call forwarding. This means it shows whether your incoming calls, text messages, or even data connections are being automatically redirected to another number. It's a quick way to see if you've accidentally (or intentionally) set up call forwarding without diving into layers of settings.

For example, maybe you forwarded calls to voicemail or a colleague during a meeting and forgot to turn it off. Or perhaps you're troubleshooting why you're not receiving calls—this code gives you an instant answer. The information appears on-screen in seconds, usually listing separate statuses for voice, SMS, and data forwarding.

It's important to note that *#21# only displays the current status—it doesn’t activate or deactivate anything. So it's completely safe to use, and definitely not a way to expose hidden surveillance. Think of it more like a diagnostic tool than a detective gadget.

While smartphones now have user-friendly settings menus, these USSD codes still offer a fast, no-fuss alternative. Next time you're unsure whether your calls are being forwarded, just punch in *#21#—the answer is only a few taps away.