WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app in the world, with over 2 billion active users. When you first sign up for WhatsApp, you need to verify your phone number with a verification code sent via SMS. This verification code is usually sent by WhatsApp automatically when you provide your phone number. However, sometimes the verification code may not come through for various reasons. In this article, we will discuss why you may not be receiving the WhatsApp verification code and what you can do to get it and complete the verification process.
Why am I not getting the WhatsApp verification code?
There are a few common reasons why you may not be getting the WhatsApp verification code:
- Wrong phone number entered – Double check that you have entered your phone number correctly, including the country code.
- Poor network connection – Your phone may not have proper cellular reception to receive the SMS. Try moving to an area with better signal.
- SMS blocking settings – Some carriers or installed apps may block automated verification messages. Check your phone settings.
- Outdated WhatsApp version – Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
- Too many attempts – WhatsApp limits verification attempts, so you may have to wait before trying again.
- SIM card issues – Your SIM card may be damaged, deactivated or require reactivation.
If none of these issues apply and you still cannot get the verification code, there are some alternative methods you can try.
Use WhatsApp voice call verification
The easiest alternative to SMS verification is using WhatsApp’s built-in voice call verification. Here’s how it works:
- Enter your full phone number correctly on WhatsApp and tap on “Call me” instead of “Send SMS”.
- WhatsApp will call your phone number with an automated call.
- Answer the call and you should hear a recording asking you to verify with a 6 digit code.
- Enter this 6 digit code into WhatsApp to complete verification.
This method relies on your phone’s calling capability instead of SMS, so it can work even if you are not receiving the text verification code.
Use backup verification methods
If voice call verification also does not work, WhatsApp has provided some backup verification options:
- Photo verification – WhatsApp will ask you to take a photo of yourself showing a handwritten code provided on screen. An agent verifies the photo and manually approves verification.
- Email verification – You can request to have the 6 digit code sent to your registered email instead of via SMS.
- Physical mail – As a last resort, you can request to have the 6 digit code physically mailed to your address which can take up to 7 days.
These methods require time and some patience but can be used if all else fails. Do note that there are limits on how many times you can attempt verification before getting blocked.
Troubleshoot your phone
In some cases, the issue may lie with your phone device rather than WhatsApp. Try these troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your phone – Toggle airplane mode on and off if a simple restart does not work.
- Check for OS/software updates – Install latest operating system and security patches.
- Reset network settings – Go into network settings and choose reset which refreshes cellular data.
- Check SIM card health – Remove and reinsert SIM card to refresh connection and check for damage.
- Test with a different phone – Try inserting your SIM in another phone to isolate issues.
- Contact mobile carrier – Get help from your cellular carrier to identify and fix network problems.
Fixing device specific issues can help resolve connection problems that prevent receiving SMS verification codes.
Use a different phone number
As a last resort, attempt verifying your WhatsApp account with a different phone number. You can use:
- Your second SIM if you have dual SIM capability.
- Number of a family member or friend (with their permission).
- Temporary number from cell provider or apps like TalkU.
- New second phone line or a cheap prepaid SIM card.
Switching phone numbers is inconvenient but this approach effectively isolates whether the issues are tied to your original number or not. If verification works on the new number, the problem lies with your original number and carrier.
Conclusion
To summarize, here are some effective troubleshooting tips if you are not receiving the WhatsApp verification code SMS:
- Double check your entered phone number and retry.
- Use WhatsApp’s voice call verification method.
- Attempt backup email or photo verification offered by WhatsApp.
- Troubleshoot your mobile device OS, software and network connectivity.
- As a last resort, attempt verification with a different phone number.
Following these steps will help identify where the verification issue lies and get you verified through some way. Verification is important for security and enabling full WhatsApp access. Be persistent and you will eventually resolve the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to verify my number on WhatsApp?
WhatsApp requires new users to verify their phone numbers for security and anti-spam reasons. This confirms you actually own the number and prevents abuse. Verification helps WhatsApp build authenticity.
Can someone else verify my WhatsApp if I cannot?
No, for security reasons the verification code is tied only to your device and number. But you can use someone else’s number for verification if your number has issues.
What happens if verification code is not received after 24 hours?
If you have not received the 6-digit SMS code after more than 24 hours, it is recommended to try the voice call verification method provided within WhatsApp. If that also does not work, you can try alternative options like photo or email verification.
Does WhatsApp work without verification?
You can use WhatsApp for a limited time without verification, but important features will be restricted. Verifying your number is required for full access to WhatsApp messaging and call capabilities.
Can I request WhatsApp to send the verification code again?
Yes, if you provided the correct number but did not receive the SMS, you can request WhatsApp to re-send a new 6-digit verification code by tapping on the “Resend SMS” option within WhatsApp. This can be done multiple times if needed.
Summary of tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Check for typos in entered number | Correct any numerical errors in the phone number you entered into WhatsApp. |
| Try WhatsApp voice call verification | Tap “Call me” instead of “Send SMS” for automated verification call. |
| Use backup email/photo verification | Email or photo verification options are available in WhatsApp settings. |
| Troubleshoot mobile device issues | Restart device, check for updates, reinsert SIM to resolve issues. |
| Attempt verification with different number | Try a secondary number or temporary prepaid SIM as last resort. |
Conclusion
Receiving the SMS verification code is necessary to complete WhatsApp registration on your device. If you are having issues, first retry and check for typos in the number entered. Then attempt voice call verification and backup email and photo methods offered within WhatsApp. If the problem persists, troubleshoot your mobile device connectivity and network related issues. As a final option, see if verification works on a different phone number. Persistence and systematically trying these verification alternatives will help resolve your WhatsApp registration problem.