WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, with over 2 billion monthly active users. A WhatsApp number allows you to use the app to call, text, and send media to other users. While you typically need a real phone number to create a WhatsApp account, there are ways to get a virtual WhatsApp number for free.
Why would I want a virtual WhatsApp number?
There are a few key reasons you may want a virtual WhatsApp number rather than using your personal number:
- Privacy – A virtual number helps keep your real number private when chatting on WhatsApp.
- Business use – Virtual numbers are great for small businesses marketing on WhatsApp or customer support agents.
- Secondary accounts – You can have multiple WhatsApp accounts with different numbers.
A virtual number provides more anonymity and keeps your primary number from being overloaded with WhatsApp notifications. Virtual numbers are ideal for those looking to establish a presence on WhatsApp without compromising their personal information.
How to get a free virtual WhatsApp number
There are a few different methods you can use to get a virtual WhatsApp number for free. Here are some of the top options:
1. Use a free online service
There are many free online services that provide virtual phone numbers for receiving SMS/calls. These numbers also work for WhatsApp verification. Some popular options include:
- TextNow
- Google Voice
- TalkU
- TextPlus
The process will look something like this:
- Go to the website and sign up for a free account.
- Choose a virtual phone number from available area codes.
- The service will generate a phone number tied to your account.
- Open WhatsApp and use the virtual number to verify your account.
The major benefit of these services is that they offer virtual numbers at no cost. The downside is that some may require you to verify your identity or have limits on how many texts/calls you can make using the number.
2. Use a free VoIP app
VoIP (Voice over IP) apps allow you to make voice calls over the internet. Many also provide free virtual phone numbers:
- Sideline
- Hushed
- TextMe
- GrooVe IP
To get a virtual WhatsApp number from these apps:
- Download the app and create an account.
- Select a phone number from available area codes.
- Apps may require you to verify the number via SMS or call.
- Activate the number in WhatsApp using the verification code.
VoIP apps provide more calling and texting freedom with the virtual number. But some paid plans may be required for extended usage.
3. Use a free SIM card service
There are some services that provide free SIM cards with prepaid cell phone plans. These physical SIM cards can be used to verify WhatsApp:
- Tello – Provides free SIM card with $10 credit
- SimCorner – Offers free SIM card with £5 credit
The process involves:
- Order a free SIM card from one of the services.
- Activate the SIM card with the provided cell phone plan.
- Use the SIM number to verify WhatsApp.
- Top up the SIM if needed for more texts/calls.
The advantage with these physical SIM services is you get a real cell phone number that can be used for receiving SMS/calls. Just be aware that you’ll need to top up the SIM to extend usage.
Other options for free WhatsApp numbers
If the above options don’t work for you, here are a few other methods to try for getting a free WhatsApp number:
Use a friend or family member’s number
You can temporarily use a number belonging to someone you trust, like a friend or family member. Just be sure to delete the number from your WhatsApp after verifying the account.
Use a free trial of a paid virtual number service
Some paid services offer free trials (usually 7 days) that provide a virtual number. You can sign up for the trial and use the number only for WhatsApp verification.
Spoof a phone number
There are some apps that let you spoof phone numbers to receive verification texts/calls. However, spoofing numbers is illegal in many countries, so use this method at your own risk.
Can I get banned using these methods?
WhatsApp doesn’t allow duplicate accounts or using virtual numbers from some providers. So there’s a risk your new account gets banned. To avoid issues:
- Don’t create multiple accounts with the same number.
- Don’t modify the number to look like a local number.
- Use numbers meant for calling/texting to verify accounts.
As long as you use a valid virtual number and follow WhatsApp’s terms, your account should be fine. WhatsApp regularly updates banned providers, so an option that works today may not work tomorrow.
Can I transfer my WhatsApp account to a new number?
If you want to move your existing WhatsApp account to a new virtual number, you can follow these steps:
- Install WhatsApp on a new device and enter your new virtual number.
- Verify the number with SMS/call confirmation.
- Open your old WhatsApp account and go to Settings > Account > Change Number.
- Enter the new virtual number and tap Next.
- Confirm the change when prompted.
Your WhatsApp chat history, groups, and media will move over to the new virtual number. Just be sure your old number remains active to receive the confirmation text/call when transferring your account.
Pros and cons of virtual WhatsApp numbers
Virtual numbers offer greater privacy and flexibility on WhatsApp. But there are some downsides to weigh as well before choosing a virtual number over your regular number.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Improved privacy and anonymity | Higher risk of getting banned |
| No need to give out your personal number | Limited calling and texting on free plans |
| Easy to setup multiple accounts | Less convenience than regular mobile number |
| Avoid overload on your primary number | Might not work for two-step verification services |
| Separation of business and personal chats | Some services unreliable or inconsistent |
Overall, virtual WhatsApp numbers provide more control over how you use the app and with whom you communicate. But weigh the advantages against any limitations to pick the right option for your needs.
What else can I do with virtual WhatsApp numbers?
Beyond just using WhatsApp, there are some other useful things you can do with virtual WhatsApp numbers:
Run multiple WhatsApp business accounts
Use different virtual numbers to operate separate WhatsApp business profiles for your different business areas or brands.
Segment WhatsApp groups
Have distinct WhatsApp groups for family, friends, work etc. by using different virtual numbers.
Temporary usage
Get a virtual number to use WhatsApp while traveling abroad to avoid roaming charges.
Protect your identity
Give out a virtual number instead of your real number to remain anonymous on internet forums, classifieds or dating sites.
Stage demos or screenshots
Developers can use virtual numbers to demo WhatsApp features or take mockup screenshots for app stores.
Key takeaways
Here are some key points to keep in mind when getting a free virtual WhatsApp number:
- Online phone services, VoIP apps, and SIM cards can provide free virtual phone numbers.
- Use the virtual number only for WhatsApp verification to avoid getting banned.
- You can transfer your existing WhatsApp account to a new virtual number.
- Virtual numbers provide more privacy but may have usage limitations.
- Apart from chatting, virtual numbers can help segment WhatsApp usage.
Conclusion
Getting a virtual WhatsApp number allows you to enjoy privacy, manage multiple accounts, and separate personal and business chats. While exercising caution with banned numbers, the many free online services and apps make it easy to get a virtual number set up in WhatsApp. Just choose a reliable provider, verify your account, and start chatting securely.