Feel like you’re too easily identifiable online? Or worried about how much data you’re giving out? You have every right to be concerned. In 2024 alone, the biggest data breaches resulted in 1 million stolen records, including phone numbers and postal addresses.
It can feel almost impossible to continue to function with some level of anonymity in today’s world, where virtually everything is operated online and you’re expected to hand over your details every time you want to create an account. Thankfully, though, there are ways to at least reduce how often you’re sharing your private information, and one of these is to use virtual numbers instead of sharing your own.
But how exactly does this work? Where do the numbers come from, and how do they work as effective substitutes? We’re explaining everything you should know in this guide.
Virtual numbers are essentially just like temporary phone lines. You can use them for whatever purpose—in the case of registering or signing up for an online service, they’re ideal for receiving SMS verification codes or accessing one-time two-factor authentication without sharing your phone number.
Using virtual numbers when you’re creating accounts online is a smarter way to register for services without having to expose your real contact information. Because the number you’re giving out isn’t your own, you’ll be protected from unwanted calls and texts, as well as preventing your number from being sold or leaked by the service you’re signing up for.
Sites like https://www.smspool.net/ make it easy to buy non-VoIP numbers for short-term use. You just choose a country or region, select a number, and input that number in the box when you’re creating an account.
You can use the number to receive a one-time SMS code (received online via the site providing the number), which you’ll then provide to verify your identity. The process only takes a few seconds, and you don’t need to link this temporary number to your phone plan.
When are virtual numbers a good solution?
Virtual numbers are a good solution whenever you don’t want to give out your data. This might be because you’re sick of getting spam, or you’re concerned about your number showing up in a breach.
A virtual number gives you more control over who contacts you and where your number ends up. It’s ideal for when you’re signing up for a new service that you’re not sure about, or you just want to take advantage of a trial.
Just keep in mind that some services will ask you to verify your account with a phone number every time you log in, so virtual numbers are no good for services that you plan to reuse in the long term.
If you’re serious about protecting your identity online, one of the simplest tools you have is virtual numbers. Creating an account and verifying your identity with a virtual number is an effective way to stay anonymous and minimize how often your data is shared online.
See also: Online temporary numbers: The best way to protect your mobile from spam and scams
