WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps in the world, with over 2 billion active users. When you first sign up for WhatsApp, you are required to verify your phone number. This connects your WhatsApp account to your phone number so you can start messaging friends and family.
If you are trying to verify your WhatsApp number in Great Britain (GB), there are a few simple steps you need to follow:
Receive the verification code
When you first install WhatsApp and enter your phone number, they will send you a 6-digit verification code via SMS. This code is usually received within a few minutes, but sometimes can take longer depending on your mobile network. If you don’t receive the code within 15 minutes, you can request that WhatsApp resends it.
Enter the verification code
Once you’ve received the 6-digit verification code via SMS, open WhatsApp and enter this code when prompted. Make sure to enter the numbers exactly as they appear in the message. This will verify your phone number with WhatsApp.
Call the verification code
If you are unable to receive the SMS with the verification code, WhatsApp gives you the option to receive an automated verification call instead. To do this, tap ‘Call me’ when prompted and you will receive a phone call with the 6-digit code. Enter this code into WhatsApp to verify your number.
Why is WhatsApp verification required?
WhatsApp makes verification mandatory for all users to help prevent spam and abuse. By requiring a verified phone number, WhatsApp can ensure each account is linked to a real person. This helps prevent:
- Fake and duplicate accounts
- Spam messaging
- Scams and phishing attempts
- Unauthorized usage of your account
The verification process acts as an identity check, confirming you are the real owner of your phone number and WhatsApp account. This improves security and helps prevent unwanted activities.
How does WhatsApp verification work?
The WhatsApp verification process works through an automated SMS messaging system:
- You enter your phone number when installing WhatsApp.
- WhatsApp sends an SMS to that phone number with a unique 6-digit code.
- You receive the SMS with the code and enter it into WhatsApp.
- WhatsApp checks the code matches and verifies your phone number.
- Your WhatsApp account is now verified and linked to your number.
This automated verification system allows WhatsApp to instantly confirm your phone number without any manual processing or delays. As soon as the SMS is received, the account is verified.
Benefits of automated verification:
- Fast and instant verification in a matter of minutes
- No forms to fill out or documents to upload
- Works seamlessly across mobile networks
- High security with unique 6-digit codes
- Accessible worldwide across all countries
By automating the verification process through SMS, WhatsApp can offer a frictionless sign-up flow to its billions of users globally.
Is WhatsApp verification safe?
Yes, the WhatsApp verification process is very safe and secure. Here are some of the safety features:
End-to-end encryption
All messages sent through WhatsApp are end-to-end encrypted. This extends to the verification codes, ensuring they remain hidden from everyone except the sender and recipient.
Random 6-digit codes
The verification codes are randomly generated 6-digit numbers. This makes them impossible to predict or spoof.
Limited validity
The verification codes expire after a short period of time. This prevents any expired or stale codes from being misused.
SMS network security
The underlying mobile networks that deliver the SMS have their own security measures to prevent interception or tampering.
Account notifications
If someone tries verifying your number on a new device, WhatsApp will notify you to alert of any unauthorized usage.
Two-step verification
For extra security, you can set up two-step verification on your WhatsApp account. This adds an optional PIN as a second layer of protection.
So in summary, while no system is completely foolproof, WhatsApp has implemented safety mechanisms at multiple levels to ensure the verification process is secure and private. Your personal data remains protected throughout the verification flow.
Common WhatsApp verification issues
In most cases, WhatsApp verification works smoothly without any hiccups. But sometimes you may encounter issues like:
Not receiving SMS code
This can happen due to mobile network issues or if you entered an incorrect number. WhatsApp allows resending the code or calling with the code to overcome this.
Entering incorrect code
Double check the code you received matches what you entered. Too many incorrect attempts can temporarily block verification, so enter carefully.
Stale verification codes
If you attempt verification after too long, the old code may have expired. Request a fresh new code and enter it quickly.
SIM card errors
You may see “SIM card registration required” if your mobile operator requires SIM verification first. Contact them to register your SIM card.
Automated call not received
Check your network coverage and whether you can receive automated calls. Contact your operator if calls are being blocked.
Number already registered
This normally means your number is registered on another device. You can only verify a number once and can’t reuse it.
How to troubleshoot WhatsApp verification problems
If you are struggling to verify your WhatsApp number, try these troubleshooting steps:
Restart your phone
Restarting your device resets the mobile network connection and can resolve temporary glitches.
Check your internet connection
Make sure you have an active internet data connection – WhatsApp needs mobile data or WiFi to send the verification code.
Toggle airplane mode on/off
Turn on airplane mode for 15-30 seconds and turn it off. This forces the device to re-establish the mobile network connection.
Check the phone number you entered
Confirm the number you entered on WhatsApp matches your actual SIM phone number. Entering an incorrect number is a common mistake.
Request a new code
If you haven’t received a code in over 15 minutes, request WhatsApp to send a new SMS with a fresh code.
Contact your mobile operator
For persistent issues, contact your mobile operator and check that SMS services and automated calls are not being blocked.
Change SMS app
Try temporarily changing your default SMS app. Some third party apps have filtering that may block WhatsApp codes.
Update WhatsApp
Ensure you’re running the latest version of WhatsApp. Older versions may have bugs affecting verification. Update via your device’s app store.
Clear app data/cache
In severe cases, you can uninstall WhatsApp, clear all app data and cache from device settings, and try reinstalling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to verify my number?
WhatsApp requires verified numbers to confirm your identity, prevent spam, and ensure one account per number. This improves security across their global user base.
Can I use WhatsApp without verifying?
No, WhatsApp will not allow you to access the app until you successfully verify your phone number. Verification is mandatory.
What if I don’t have SMS on my plan?
If you cannot receive SMS, choose the automated call option. WhatsApp can call you with the verification code instead.
How long is the verification code valid for?
The SMS verification code typically expires after around 15 minutes. If unused, you will have to request a new one.
I lost my phone – can I still verify?
If your phone is lost/stolen, you can install WhatsApp on a new device and re-verify your number to regain access.
Can I verify multiple devices with one number?
No, each WhatsApp account can only be verified with one number at a time for security reasons.
What if someone else verified my number?
Contact WhatsApp immediately if you suspect someone else has verified your number without authorization. They can help secure your account.
In Conclusion
Verifying your phone number is a simple and mandatory step when signing up for WhatsApp in GB or any country. By entering the SMS or call verification code, you link your account to your mobile number. This adds security, prevents spam, and enables important account recovery options.
If you run into any issues receiving or entering your verification code, first retry receiving a new code. If problems persist, contact your mobile operator to troubleshoot potential network problems. With SMS networks being highly reliable, most users breeze through the WhatsApp verification process within minutes so they can start messaging friends and family seamlessly.