WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, with over 2 billion active users. When signing up for a new WhatsApp account, users are required to provide their phone number and verify it through an SMS or voice call containing a 6-digit verification code.
However, there are some situations where you may want to register a WhatsApp number without actually verifying it via code. Perhaps you want to create a second account without having access to that phone number. Or maybe you are setting up WhatsApp for someone else and don’t have access to their number for verification. So is it possible to register and use WhatsApp without verifying the number?
Can I register a WhatsApp number without verification?
The short answer is no – there is no direct way to fully register a WhatsApp account without verifying the phone number through the 6-digit code. WhatsApp has designed their system this way intentionally as a security measure, to prevent abuse through fake or unauthorized accounts.
When you enter a phone number to create a new WhatsApp account, it will automatically send a verification code to that number. Without inputting this code, the registration process cannot be completed and you will not be able to use that account fully.
Why does WhatsApp require number verification?
WhatsApp requires SMS or voice call verification for every registered number for the following reasons:
- To prevent account abuse through automated scripts or bots
- To reduce spread of fake news or misinformation through unverified accounts
- To enforce their one account per number policy
- To confirm user identity and secure accounts
The verification code adds an extra step but gives WhatsApp confidence that real users are creating the accounts. It helps them maintain the integrity of their messaging platform and community.
What are some workarounds?
While full registration is not possible without verification, there are some workarounds and tricks users attempt to use WhatsApp without completing the verification process:
Use a virtual number
You can use a virtual phone number service to receive SMS online. This gives you a virtual number that can receive text messages without needing a real SIM card. Useful for setting up burner or temporary WhatsApp accounts.
Spoof the SMS verification
There are apps that can spoof or simulate receiving an SMS, allowing you to bypass verification. However this workaround does not always work reliably.
Register using WiFi calling
Some carriers allow WiFi calling to receive call verifications without a SIM. This option only works if your carrier supports it.
Use WhatsApp Plus or GB WhatsApp mods
Unauthorized modified apps like WhatsApp Plus and GB WhatsApp allow registration without verification. However these come with security risks and are not recommended.
Can I use WhatsApp without a SIM card?
Technically yes – you can use WhatsApp Web to access your account through a browser on your computer or laptop without needing a SIM card. However, you still need an active registered mobile number to set up the account and complete verification at least once.
The WhatsApp mobile app requires a SIM card and active number to activate your account. While you can access it subsequently through WhatsApp Web without a SIM, you cannot fully activate a new account without a phone number.
What features are limited without verification?
Without completing number verification, your WhatsApp access will be extremely limited. Some things you cannot do without verifying your number include:
- Messaging others
- Changing profile information
- Creating or joining WhatsApp groups
- Making voice or video calls
- Using WhatsApp on multiple devices
Essentially, without verification you’ll have an inactive account and only be able to access limited settings. To use WhatsApp properly, the verification code step is mandatory.
How long does WhatsApp allow without verification?
You are allowed to remain unverified on WhatsApp for up to 7 days after installing it before your account gets suspended. If you still haven’t completed verification after a week, the app will require you to verify the number again before using that account.
What happens after 7 days without verification?
Here is what happens when you don’t verify your WhatsApp number within 7 days of registering:
- Your account will get suspended
- You won’t be able to send or receive messages
- You will have to re-verify the number to use it again
- Chats and groups may get removed after 120 days of suspension
To avoid losing access, it’s recommended to complete the verification process within a week of installing WhatsApp if you intend to use it.
Can I verify later after registering?
Yes, you can register a WhatsApp number without verifying it initially and complete verification later. When you need to activate that account fully, just open WhatsApp and request a new 6 digit code.
As long as you verify within 7 days of registering, you can complete the process at a later time when it’s more convenient for you to confirm the code through SMS or call.
Conclusion
While WhatsApp does not allow users to skip number verification entirely during registration, there are some short term workarounds like using virtual numbers and modified apps. However, for full functionality you will need to verify the number within a week.
WhatsApp’s verification requirements aim to boost security and authenticity. Though the code step causes some inconvenience, it helps prevent abuse. With over 2 billion users, WhatsApp’s priority is maintaining a safe, trusted platform.