Tips for popular services

Every service decides for itself which numbers it accepts and how it sends codes. These tips cover the most common situations. The golden rule stays the same: if no code arrives, cancel the number or let it expire, and you get the full price back.

Before you start with any service

• Buy the number for the service you are actually signing up for. A number bought for WhatsApp is meant for WhatsApp.
• Enter the number with Copy number and choose the same country in the other service.
• Choose to receive the code by SMS whenever the service gives you a choice.

WhatsApp

• Choose the SMS option. Codes by phone call cannot be received.
• If WhatsApp says you must wait before asking again, do not keep retrying on the same number. Cancel it and try a number from another country.

Telegram

• If the number is already linked to a Telegram account, Telegram may send the code inside Telegram instead of by SMS. Look for an option to receive the code by SMS, or cancel and use another number.

Google, Microsoft and other e-mail providers

• These providers may refuse a number with a message such as "this phone number cannot be used for verification". This is their decision, not a fault of the number. Cancel it for a full refund and try another country.

Social networks and dating apps

• Some apps link a phone number to one account for a long time. A temporary number is fine for a quick sign-up, but you will not be able to receive codes on it later.

Banking, payment and government services

• Do not use a temporary number for accounts you may need to recover later. After it ends, the number can go to someone else.

When nothing works

• Try a different country for the same service.
• Wait a while before trying the same service again. Many services slow down repeated attempts.
• Read What to do when the code does not arrive and, if you think the problem is ours, contact support.