WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, with over 2 billion users. To create an account on WhatsApp, you need to provide a valid mobile phone number. This number is used to verify your identity and connect your account. Many users have questions about how to get a number specifically to verify WhatsApp when they don’t have an extra phone number available.
Why do you need a number to verify WhatsApp?
When you first sign up for WhatsApp, you will be prompted to enter your phone number. This number needs to be valid and not already in use on WhatsApp. WhatsApp will send a verification code via SMS to that number to confirm you are the owner of the number.
This verification process is important for security and preventing spam accounts. It links your account to a real phone number and ensures one number is only associated with one WhatsApp account. This is why you cannot simply use any random number – it needs to be a real mobile number you have access to.
Options to get a number to verify WhatsApp
If you don’t have an extra phone number or SIM card, there are a few options to get a number for WhatsApp verification:
Use Family or Friends’ Number Temporarily
The easiest option is to borrow a number from a family member or friend temporarily. You can use their number to receive the SMS verification code and create your account. Just make sure to have them nearby to provide the code. This avoids having to get a new number just for WhatsApp.
Purchase a Pay-As-You-Go SIM Card
You can purchase an inexpensive pay-as-you-go SIM card from a phone provider. Make sure to get one with SMS capabilities. Top it up with a small amount of credit just to receive the verification text from WhatsApp. After activating your WhatsApp, you can dispose of the SIM if you don’t need it for actual phone service.
Use a Free Online Phone Number
There are apps and websites that provide free online phone numbers that can receive SMS text verifications. Examples include TextNow, TextPlus, and Google Voice. Sign up for one of these services to get a virtual phone number, then use it for your WhatsApp verification. This avoids having to pay for a SIM card.
Use a VoIP Service Number
Some VoIP (Voice over IP) phone services like Skype also provide phone numbers that can be used for verification purposes. Check if your VoIP service offers a phone number option that allows SMS messaging. You can temporarily link that number to your WhatsApp to receive the verification code text.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide to using a free online phone number service to get verified for WhatsApp:
- Sign up for a free online phone number service like TextNow. Download the app or create an account on their website.
- Choose a free phone number option and make sure it has SMS capabilities.
- Open the WhatsApp app and begin the signup process. When prompted, enter the phone number from your online service.
- Wait for the verification code text message to arrive in the online service app or website.
- Input the 6-digit verification code in WhatsApp to complete signup.
- You now have a verified WhatsApp account linked to your online number.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Make sure the number you use is not already registered with WhatsApp. Each number can only be linked to one account.
- Online phone numbers may have limits on how many texts you can receive using their free service. Make sure it’s enough to cover the WhatsApp verification.
- Borrowing a friend/family member’s number is easiest as long as they have their phone to access the verification code.
- Pay-as-you-go SIM cards will give you a dedicated number but require paying for the card and a small amount of prepaid service.
- You can unlink the online number from WhatsApp after your account is verified, if you wish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I just use any random number for WhatsApp verification?
WhatsApp needs to verify you are the real owner of the number, so it needs to be an actual working mobile number you have access to. Using a fake or randomly generated number won’t work because you won’t be able to receive the SMS code on it.
Can I use the same number on multiple WhatsApp accounts?
No, each WhatsApp account must be linked to a unique phone number. You cannot reuse the same number for multiple accounts.
Can I verify WhatsApp with a landline number?
No, WhatsApp verification only works with valid mobile numbers. Landlines cannot receive SMS messages so won’t work for the verification process.
Is there a way to use WhatsApp without any phone number?
Unfortunately no, a phone number is required during the signup process for verification. There is no way to use WhatsApp without linking a phone number to your account.
How long does the WhatsApp verification code last?
The SMS verification code normally expires after a few minutes. If it expires before using it, you will need to request a new code.
What if I don’t have the phone to receive the verification code?
Without access to the actual phone, you won’t be able to complete verification. You would need to borrow someone else’s number temporarily in order to receive the SMS code.
Can I remove the phone number from WhatsApp after verification?
No, once a number is linked and verified on WhatsApp it cannot be unlinked from that account. Your account will remain associated with that number unless you delete the account entirely.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If you don’t receive the verification code, make sure you entered the correct number on WhatsApp.
- Check the mobile signal on the device for the number you are using.
- Contact your phone carrier to ensure your number has SMS capabilities enabled.
- The verification code is 6 digits long. Make sure to enter it exactly as sent.
- If your code expires, you will need to request WhatsApp to resend a new one.
- Try restarting your device and resending the code if you are having issues.
Conclusion
In summary, WhatsApp requires a valid mobile number for verification when you first create your account. To get a number for this if you don’t have a spare, you can borrow from a friend, purchase a new SIM card, or sign up for a free online phone service. Make sure to use a number that can receive SMS messages to obtain the 6-digit WhatsApp verification code. With a working number, you can quickly complete the signup process and start using WhatsApp.