Not receiving a WhatsApp verification code can be frustrating. Here are some quick answers to common questions about WhatsApp verification codes and troubleshooting tips to help get your account verified.
Quick Answers
Here are quick answers to common questions about WhatsApp verification codes:
- WhatsApp uses verification codes for registering new accounts and verifying existing accounts when you change devices or phone numbers.
- Verification codes are 6 digit numbers sent via SMS or an automated phone call.
- You need to enter the code within 24 hours before it expires.
- Not receiving a code usually means there’s an issue delivering it to your phone number.
- Common reasons for not getting a code include incorrect phone number, network issues, phone software issues, blocked messages, and expired codes.
- Troubleshooting includes making sure you entered the right phone number, contacting your network carrier, updating your phone software, checking message blocking settings, and requesting a new code.
- If you still can’t get a code, you may need to change to a different phone number that can receive messages.
Why You Need a Verification Code
WhatsApp uses a 6-digit verification code during the initial account registration process and when you change devices or phone numbers associated with your account. This verification code is a security measure designed to confirm you own the phone number for your WhatsApp account. It helps prevent unauthorized people from registering accounts using random phone numbers. Some reasons you may need to enter a new WhatsApp verification code include:
- Registering a new WhatsApp account
- Changing to a new mobile device
- Switching to a new phone number
- Reinstalling WhatsApp after uninstalling
- Factory resetting your phone
Without entering the latest 6-digit verification code, you won’t be able to access and use your WhatsApp account. So not receiving this code will prevent you from verifying your account and logging in to the app.
How WhatsApp Sends Verification Codes
WhatsApp gives you the option to receive the 6-digit verification code through SMS text messaging or an automated phone call. Here are the ways verification codes can be sent:
- SMS text message – The verification code is sent as text message to the phone number you provided. This is the default method used in most cases.
- Automated phone call – An automated call reads the 6 digit code aloud. You select this option if you’re having trouble receiving SMS.
The verification code expires within 24 hours of being sent. If you don’t enter the correct code within 24 hours, you’ll have to request a new one. The code typically arrives within a few minutes, but may take longer depending on your cellular network.
Why You’re Not Getting the WhatsApp Verification Code
There are a several possible reasons you may not be receiving the WhatsApp verification code needed to verify your account:
Incorrect phone number entered
Double check that the phone number you entered is correct and corresponds to the device you’re trying to verify. It’s easy to mistype a number or enter an old number by mistake. The code is sent automatically to the exact number associated with your account.
Cellular network issues
Network outages or issues with your cellular carrier can prevent SMS and phone calls from going through. Check for known outages in your area. Try toggling Airplane mode on/off to reset your connection.
Phone software issues
Problems with your phone’s software or settings may interfere with receiving messages and calls. Try resetting your device’s network settings to defaults. Also make sure your operating system and apps are fully up to date.
Blocked messages
Your phone may be blocking messages from unknown numbers. WhatsApp codes are sent from unrecognized numbers. Check your block settings and unblock messages from unknown senders.
Expired verification code
The verification code expires 24 hours after being sent. If it’s been longer than 24 hours, you will need to request a new code. Don’t reuse an old expired code.
Wrong message app
The SMS verification code will only work if entered directly in the WhatsApp app, not your normal text messaging app. Make sure to open WhatsApp and enter the code when prompted.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you aren’t receiving a WhatsApp verification code, try these troubleshooting steps:
Make sure you entered the right number
Triple check that the phone number you entered in WhatsApp matches the phone you’re trying to verify. Go slow and carefully enter each digit.
Contact your cellular carrier
Reach out to your cellular provider’s customer support to check for issues delivering messages to your number. Have them verify your service is active and able to receive texts and calls.
Update your phone’s software
Install any available updates for your phone’s operating system and apps. Older versions may have incompatibilities with WhatsApp’s messaging system.
Unblock all unknown senders
Temporarily unblock messages and calls from all unknown numbers. The WhatsApp verification code will come from an unrecognized number.
Open WhatsApp and request a new code
Directly open WhatsApp, go through the verification process, and select to have a new code sent. Don’t reuse old codes.
Try a different way to receive the code
If you originally chose SMS text verification, try switching to the automated phone call option or vice versa.
Change to a different phone number
As a last resort, attempt verification with a different phone number that you know can receive messages. You can change back after verification.
Getting Help from WhatsApp
If you still can’t get a verification code after exhausting the troubleshooting steps, you can get help directly from WhatsApp:
- Check WhatsApp’s help center article on not receiving a verification code for more suggestions: https://faq.whatsapp.com/general/verification/why-didnt-i-receive-a-verification-code/?lang=en
- File a support request in the WhatsApp settings or contact form describing your verification issue: https://www.whatsapp.com/contact/
A WhatsApp support team member can provide individualized troubleshooting help and manually push a new verification code in some cases.
Preventing Future Verification Issues
To avoid verification code issues going forward, follow these tips:
- Save your WhatsApp number as a contact to avoid unknown sender blocking.
- Keep your phone’s operating system and apps updated.
- Don’t delete or uninstall WhatsApp unless transferring numbers.
- Check for cellular carrier outages if messages/calls aren’t going through.
- Know where to get help from WhatsApp support if problems persist.
Understanding SMS and Phone Call Verification
WhatsApp’s use of SMS text messages and automated phone calls for account verification relies on standard communication technology. Here’s some background on how these work:
SMS Text Messaging
| Definition | SMS stands for Short Message Service. It allows sending text messages up to 160 characters to mobile phones. |
| History | The first SMS text message was sent in 1992. SMS grew popular in the late 1990s and 2000s before declining with smartphone messaging apps. |
| Sending | SMS messages are sent over cellular networks. Your phone’s messaging settings must be enabled to receive them. |
| Limitations | SMS requires cellular service to work. Messages can be delayed or failed due to network issues. Group messages are not supported. |
| Cost | Standard SMS rates typically apply, though some cellular plans include unlimited texts. Sending verification messages does not cost extra. |
Automated Phone Calls
| Definition | Automated phone calls deliver a pre-recorded message when the recipient answers the call. |
| Sending | Automated calling systems dial numbers from a list and play the pre-recorded message. |
| Uses | Commonly used for sending notifications, reminders, alerts, and other short voice messages. |
| Regulations | Laws like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act regulate automated calls for consumer privacy. |
| Spam Risk | Automated calls increase risk of spam calls from telemarketers. Legitimate services give opt-out options. |
Conclusion
WhatsApp verification codes are necessary to register new accounts and confirm identities. Not receiving a code can stop you from accessing WhatsApp. Troubleshooting tips like checking for incorrect numbers, network issues, blocked messages, and expired codes can help get your account verified. Make sure to enter the 6-digit code in the WhatsApp app within 24 hours. If problems persist, reach out to WhatsApp support for help. With some diligence, you can successfully get verified and enjoy using the WhatsApp messaging app.