If you say you have a significant other, most times he’ll back off immediately or at least respect your decision to withhold your phone number. 

Now, I personally think it’s disappointing that we even have to do this — why does a man respect another man’s “claim” to you more than he respects your choice? — but sometimes it’s necessary. Plus, in a list of tips on how to avoid giving out your number, I’d be remiss not to share something that works.

Tell Him to Find You Another Way

Between Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, LinkedIn, e-mail and all of the other tech-based communication platforms out there today, there are plenty of ways to give him a means to contact you without actually giving him your phone number. I recommend this for situations in which you meet a guy who you might actually be interested in, but still don’t know that well. It’s a great way to leave the opportunity for communication open while maintaining a degree of distance.

You should be sure you kind of like him before you do this, though. Don’t allow someone you aren’t interested in to add you on social media because, although it may seem like a harmless compromise, giving out even the least bit of your personal information can lead to more awkward encounters in the future and can even be dangerous!

Just Say No

Some women have absolutely no problem turning people down without guilt, and I admire them for it. We should all strive to be these women. Sometimes just saying “no” is necessary. Being direct keeps your intentions clear and leaves no room for confusion or misinterpretation.

Additional Advice:

• I do NOT recommend giving a guy a fake phone number. First of all, he’ll quickly realize what has happened, possibly while you’re still beside him, which leads to even more awkwardness. Secondly, you have no idea whose number you are actually giving out, and it’s rude to shift your burden onto a stranger.
• Usually when a guy is going to ask for your number, there is some type of build-up. They might introduce themselves, compliment you, or tell you how they’re going to be oh-so-successful. When you see it coming, try not to have your phone out while he’s talking to you or he’ll likely use it as an invitation to ask for your number. Also, use body language to your advantage and do what you can to be polite, without furthering the conversation. Showing an attitude of disinterest can sometimes be enough to keep a guy from asking.
• If the person asking for your number is someone that you’ll have to see again, it’s best to just be honest with them. Prolonging the situation will end up making things worse for everyone involved.

At the end of the day, you have the right to choose who you want to share your personal information with, and you shouldn’t have to apologize for your decisions. Never give out your phone number simply because you feel pressured. Try one of the techniques above or develop your own strategy.