SMS Verification FAQ

A virtual phone number for OTP (One-Time Password) is a digital phone number used to receive SMS verification codes online without requiring a physical phone or SIM card. Instead of the message going to your personal mobile, the code is sent to an online dashboard, protecting your privacy.

These numbers are used to verify accounts on apps and websites, allowing you to keep your real phone number private and secure.

Key Benefits of Using a Virtual Number for OTP:

• Privacy Protection: It prevents you from sharing your real, personal phone number with countless websites and apps, reducing your risk of receiving spam calls and text messages.
• Account Security: Using a separate number for online verifications means that even if a service's database is breached, your personal phone number remains safe and unexposed.
• Global Access: You can get a virtual number from a different country to register for services that may be region locked.

Important: VoIP vs. Non-VoIP Numbers

A critical factor to consider is that many major platforms (like Google, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and Tinder) actively block standard virtual numbers. This is because most free or cheap virtual numbers are "VoIP" (Voice over IP) and are easily flagged.

For reliable verification, you need a non-VoIP virtual number. These are high-quality, real SIM-card-based numbers that are seen as legitimate mobile numbers by all platforms, ensuring you receive your OTP code successfully.

You can receive SMS online by using a virtual phone number service. These services provide you with a real, private phone number, and any text messages or OTP codes sent to that number will appear on the service's website or dashboard instead of your personal phone.

This method is commonly used to protect privacy or to register for online services and apps without sharing your real phone number.

What to Avoid: "Free SMS" Websites

While "free receive SMS" websites exist, they are not recommended for any serious use. These sites are public, meaning anyone can see the messages and codes sent to those numbers. Furthermore, most of these public numbers are already blocked by major platforms like Google, WhatsApp, and Facebook.

The Best Method: A Private Virtual Number

The most reliable and secure way to receive SMS online is by using a private virtual number service. Here’s the simple 3-step process:

1. Choose a Service: Register for a service that provides private, non-VoIP numbers the best and most recommended is legitsms.com
2. Select a Number: Pick a number for the specific service (e.g., "Google") and country you need.
3. Receive Your Code: Copy-paste that number into the app you're registering for. Your SMS verification code will appear on your service dashboard within seconds.

This method ensures your number is private, secure, and has a high success rate for verification.

A non-VoIP number is a real, physical mobile number that is tied to a traditional carrier and a physical SIM card. In short, it’s the same type of number you get from a major mobile provider for your personal cell phone.

This is the direct opposite of a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number, which is a virtual number that sends and receives messages over the internet (examples include numbers from Google Voice, Skype, or other free online apps).

Why is a Non-VoIP Number So Important for Verification?

Major platforms like Google, WhatsApp, Tinder, LinkedIn, and online banks have security systems designed to stop spam and fake accounts. These systems can easily detect and block VoIP numbers during registration.

Because a non-VoIP number is a genuine mobile number, it is seen as a legitimate, real person by these platforms. This results in a much higher success rate for receiving SMS verification codes and OTPs.

• VoIP Number: Internet-based. Easily detected and often blocked by services.
• Non-VoIP Number: Real SIM-based. Seen as a "real" mobile phone. High success rate for all verifications.

Using legitsms.com is a simple process to get a private number for SMS verification. You only pay for the messages you successfully receive.

Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Sign Up & Deposit: First, create an account. Then, add funds to your wallet (minimum deposit is $5) using a bank card, cryptocurrency, or other electronic payments.
2. Select Service: Choose the specific service you want to verify (like "Google," "WhatsApp," etc.). If your service is not on the list, just select "Any Other."
3. Choose Country: Select a country for your number. We have over 170 countries available for any platform.
4. Get Your Number: After you select a country, a private number is instantly generated for you. You will be redirected to the "Active Numbers" page.
5. Receive Your Code: Use the new number on the service you are verifying. When the SMS code is sent, it will appear instantly on your "Active Numbers" page.

What if I don't get an SMS or don't like the number?

• Automatic Refunds: If you do not receive an SMS code within the time limit, the number will automatically cancel, and the full credit will be returned to your wallet. You are never charged for a number that doesn't work.
• Cancel a Number: If you don't like the number you were given, you can click the "Cancel" button at any time to get a new one.
• Reuse a Number: You can receive multiple SMS codes on the same number. Just go to your "History" page and click the "Reuse" button on a previously successful number.

There are two main ways to get a "free" virtual phone number, but both come with significant risks and limitations, especially for OTP verification.

1. Public "Free SMS" Websites

These are public websites that list temporary phone numbers anyone can use. You do not need to sign up. However, they are not recommended for any personal or secure use for several reasons:

• They are Public: Anyone can see the messages and verification codes sent to these numbers. This is extremely insecure.
• They are Blocked: Most of these numbers are already flagged and blocked by major services like Google, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Tinder.
• They are Unreliable: You have no control over the number, and it may be taken offline at any second.

2. "Freemium" App-Based Services

These are apps (like TextNow or Google Voice) that offer a free number in exchange for watching ads or as part of a free trial. While more private than public sites, they still have major drawbacks for verification:

• They are Mostly VoIP: Nearly all "free" numbers are VoIP (Voice over IP). As explained in our other FAQ, these internet-based numbers are easily detected and blocked by most secure websites for OTP verification.
• Geographic Restrictions: Many, like Google Voice, require you to already have an existing US-based mobile number to even sign up, making them unusable for most international users.
• Recycled Numbers: These services often recycle their free numbers. You may get a number that is already in use or is still linked to someone else's old accounts.

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The Solution: A Private, Non-VoIP Number

While free numbers are okay for casual, non-important use, they are not reliable for account verification. For guaranteed, secure, and private SMS verification, a paid non-VoIP number is necessary, as it is a real mobile number that is not flagged or blocked by online services.

This depends. Sometimes, Google's sign-up form will mark the phone number field as "optional," allowing you to skip it. However, for security reasons, Google makes phone verification mandatory for most new users.

Google requires this to verify you are a real person and to prevent spam bots from creating thousands of fake accounts. If Google is asking you for a number, you will not be able to complete the sign-up process without one.

Why Free "Online" Numbers Don't Work

Your first idea might be to use a free virtual number you found online. These will almost always fail. This is because these free numbers are VoIP (Voice over IP) numbers, not real mobile numbers. Google's security system easily detects and blocks VoIP numbers at signup.

How to Reliably Verify a Google Account

The only reliable way to create a Google account without using your personal phone number is to use a private, non-VoIP virtual number.

• A non-VoIP number is a real SIM-based number, which Google's system accepts as a legitimate mobile number.
• This method allows you to receive the SMS verification code securely on a service dashboard (like legitsms.com) to complete your registration.
• It also protects your privacy by keeping your personal, real phone number unlinked from the account.

Getting a temporary number for WhatsApp requires a specific type of number that is not blocked by their security system. While many "free virtual numbers" exist, they will not work for WhatsApp verification.

Why Free & VoIP Numbers Do NOT Work

WhatsApp's main priority is to prevent spam and fake accounts. To do this, their registration system is designed to detect and block virtual numbers (VoIP), which are internet-based. Free online numbers are almost always VoIP and are rejected instantly.

• Public Numbers: Free SMS websites are public, insecure, and all their numbers are already flagged and blocked.
• VoIP Apps: Free apps provide VoIP numbers, which WhatsApp will not accept for sending a verification code.

The Only Reliable Solution: A Private, Non-VoIP Number

To successfully create a WhatsApp account, you must use a private non-VoIP number. A non-VoIP number is a real mobile number associated with a physical SIM card, which WhatsApp's system sees as a legitimate, trustworthy number.

The process is simple:

1. Get a Private Number: Use a service from LegitSMS that provides private, non-VoIP numbers for verification.
2. Select "WhatsApp": Choose "WhatsApp" from the service list and select your desired country.
3. Enter the Number: Copy the number provided and enter it into your WhatsApp registration.
4. Receive Your Code: Your 6-digit verification code will appear on your service dashboard, allowing you to complete your setup.

This is the most reliable method to get a temporary number that is guaranteed to work for WhatsApp verification.

This is a frequent problem that usually has one of two main causes: either the code is being sent to your other Telegram app, or your phone number (or network) is having an issue.

Reason 1: The Code Was Sent to Your Telegram App (Most Likely)

If you are already logged into Telegram on another device (like your computer, a tablet, or an old phone), Telegram will send the login code to your Telegram app on that device by default, not as an SMS.

• Solution: Check the Telegram app on all your other devices. The login code will be in a chat from the official Telegram service account.
• If you cannot access any other devices, look for a button on the login screen that says "Send the code as an SMS" (you may have to wait a minute for this option to appear).

Reason 2: You Are Using a VoIP Number

Like most secure apps, Telegram's anti-spam system is designed to detect and block VoIP numbers (free virtual numbers from online apps). If you are using a VoIP number, you will almost certainly not receive the code.

• Solution: You must use a non-VoIP number (a real, SIM-based number) to register. Services like legitsms.com provide private, non-VoIP numbers that are accepted by Telegram for reliable verification.

Reason 3: General SMS or Network Issues

Sometimes, the problem is with your phone or carrier, not Telegram.

• Poor Signal: You may have a weak or unstable network connection. Try moving to a different location or restarting your phone.
• Carrier Blocking: Your mobile carrier might be accidentally filtering the verification SMS as spam. Check your phone's "spam" or "blocked" messages folder.
• Wrong Number: Double-check that you entered your phone number correctly, including the international country code.
• Request a Call: If the "Send as SMS" option fails, wait for the timer to run out and select the "Call me" option. You will receive an automated phone call that reads the code to you.

No, you cannot create or use a Tinder account without verifying a phone number. Tinder requires phone number verification as a mandatory step during sign-up. This is done to ensure user authenticity, reduce the number of fake profiles, and enhance security on the platform.

Even if you choose to sign up using your Google account or Facebook account, Tinder will still prompt you to add and verify a phone number by sending an SMS code.

Can I use a virtual number?

While some users attempt to use virtual phone numbers (VoIP) from free or paid apps, this is highly discouraged and often fails. Tinder's verification system, like those of many major platforms, is designed to detect and block VoIP numbers. Attempting to use a number that Tinder flags as suspicious can result in failed verification or even account suspension.

The Recommended Way: Use a Real Mobile Number

For successful and secure Tinder verification, you need to use a phone number that can receive SMS codes. The most reliable method is using a real mobile number. If privacy is your primary concern, using a private, non-VoIP virtual number is a potential alternative.

• Non-VoIP numbers are real SIM-based numbers and have a much higher chance of being accepted by platforms like Tinder compared to standard VoIP numbers.
• Services like legitsms.com provide these private, non-VoIP numbers specifically for verification, allowing you to register without using your personal number while minimizing the risk of being blocked.

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Adding funds to your legitsms.com wallet is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Log In: Access your legitsms.com account using your credentials.
2. Navigate to Deposit: Find the "Deposit," "Add Funds," or "Wallet" section in your account dashboard.
3. Enter Amount: Specify the amount you wish to add. Please note that the minimum deposit is $5.
4. Select Payment Method: Choose your preferred way to pay. We accept several options for your convenience:
   • Bank Cards (Credit/Debit)
   • Cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
   • Other Electronic Payments
5. Complete Payment: Follow the on-screen instructions provided for your chosen payment method to finalize the deposit.

Once the payment is confirmed, the funds will be credited to your legitsms.com wallet, and you can start purchasing numbers.

Our refund process is designed to be automatic and fair, ensuring you only pay for successfully received SMS codes.

Automatic Refunds for Failed SMS:

• When you purchase a number for verification, a credit is held from your legitsms.com wallet.
• If the SMS code does not arrive at the number within the allocated time limit (e.g., due to carrier issues or platform blocks), the number automatically cancels.
• As soon as the number cancels, the full credit for that number is instantly and automatically returned to your internal legitsms.com wallet.
• You don't need to request these refunds; the system handles it automatically.

Refunds to External Wallets/Sources:

The automatic refunds mentioned above are credited back to your legitsms.com account balance (internal wallet), allowing you to try purchasing another number immediately.

We understand it can be frustrating if an SMS code doesn't arrive. Our system ensures you don't lose funds in this situation.

• Each number has a set time limit to receive the SMS verification code.
• If the SMS code does not arrive within this time, the number will automatically expire and cancel.
• When the number cancels, the full credit spent is instantly and automatically returned to your legitsms.com wallet.

This ensures you only pay for successful verifications. If a number fails, you get your funds back immediately to try again.

There can be several reasons why an SMS might not arrive, ranging from carrier delays to specific platform restrictions. For a detailed explanation of common issues and troubleshooting tips, please read our blog post: Reasons Why You Don't Receive SMS Verification Codes.

The cost of a temporary number on legitsms.com varies depending on several factors:

• The Service: Numbers for high-demand or high-security services (like banks, popular social media, etc.) generally cost more than those for less common services.
• The Country: The price for a number is also influenced by the country you select. Numbers from certain countries are more expensive due to carrier costs and availability.

Because of these variables, there isn't a single fixed price. However, you will always see the exact cost displayed next to the country selection before you confirm your purchase. This allows you to see the price upfront.

Our pricing is based on the cost from our upstream providers plus a markup to cover our operational costs and provide support.

Remember, you are only charged if the SMS code is successfully received. If the code doesn't arrive within the time limit, the full credit is automatically returned to your wallet.

Yes, the minimum deposit required to add funds to your legitsms.com wallet is $5.

This minimum helps cover transaction processing fees and ensures your account has enough balance to purchase several numbers for verification.

Yes, using legitsms.com is designed to be a safe and private way to receive SMS verification codes online. Here’s why:

• Privacy Protection: Our primary goal is to help you protect your personal phone number. By using one of our temporary numbers, you avoid sharing your real contact information with various websites and apps, significantly reducing your exposure to spam, unwanted calls, and potential data breaches.
• Private Numbers: Unlike free public SMS websites where anyone can see the messages, the numbers provided by legitsms.com are private to you during the rental period. Only you can see the verification codes sent to your number via your secure account dashboard.
• Secure Process: We utilize secure methods for account registration and payment processing to protect your data.
• Reliable Verification: We provide non-VoIP numbers, which are real mobile numbers. These are less likely to be blocked by services and offer a more reliable verification experience compared to easily flagged VoIP numbers often used by free or less reputable services.

Using a dedicated service like legitsms.com is significantly safer than using public "free SMS" websites and helps keep your primary phone number secure and private.

Yes, using temporary or virtual phone numbers is generally legal. The legality primarily depends on how you use the number, not the number itself.

Legitimate Uses:

There are many perfectly legal and common reasons why people use temporary numbers:

• Protecting Personal Privacy: Preventing your real phone number from being shared widely online.
• Avoiding Spam: Signing up for services or newsletters without exposing your main number to marketing lists.
• Account Verification: Registering for apps or websites where you prefer not to link your personal number.
• Short-Term Needs: Using a number for temporary projects, online listings (like selling items), or dating profiles.

Illegal Uses:

Using a temporary number becomes illegal if you use it for activities such as:

• Fraud or scams.
• Harassment or threats.
• Impersonating someone else.
• Any activity that violates local laws or the terms of service of the platform you are interacting with.

Our Stance: legitsms.com provides numbers intended for legitimate and legal uses, primarily for privacy protection during online verification. We do not condone or support the use of our service for any illegal activities.

Protecting your privacy is a core reason our service exists. Here are the key ways legitsms.com helps safeguard your information:

• Keeps Your Real Number Private: The fundamental benefit is that you don't need to expose your personal, real phone number when registering for online services. This prevents your main number from being linked to numerous platforms and protects you from spam, unwanted marketing, and potential data breaches on those platforms.
• Private Temporary Numbers: Unlike public "free SMS" websites where messages are visible to everyone, the temporary numbers you get from legitsms.com are assigned privately to you for the duration of their use. Only you can access the SMS codes received on that number through your secure account dashboard.
• Secure Account Management: We employ standard security practices to protect your account information and login credentials.
• Secure Payment Processing: We use secure methods to handle your payment information when you add funds to your account.
• Limited Data Requirement: We only require minimal necessary information to create and manage your account.

By acting as a shield between your personal number and online platforms, legitsms.com significantly enhances your online privacy and security during verification processes.