Most of the messaging apps need a phone number as verification before you can start using them. But then some people would not like to share their personal phone numbers. So if you need to register without using your real number, you can do it using a virtual phone number. This post will guide you on using a virtual phone number with Signal, WhatsApp, or Telegram.
Register on Signal, WhatsApp, Telegram using a Virtual phone number
If you have ever tried calling a fancy number that starts with 1800, it is actually a virtual number. You can also have numbers that look like real numbers, and they work through software or using an app on your phone. So what you need to do is – Get a virtual phone number.
There are other options, like Google Voice phone number, Skype phone number, Twillo, and many more.
What features will you need in the virtual number?
Apart from a regular cost, make sure anyone can call or send a text message on that number. The apps offered by the virtual phone number allows you to make, receive calls and text. So whatever plan you take, make sure it has both. It’s important because if the text doesn’t arrive on your number, you can choose to get a call for verification.
Sone application like Signal needs to pick up the verification SMS from the device, and there is no way to enter it manually. Some services also offer to call, in which case you need a working calling plan.
Honestly, it might be cheaper to get a second SIM compared to a virtual number. You will have to make sure that nobody gets to know it by making changes in Privacy settings. But if that’s too much of a concern because someday you will accidentally make a call using that number, then a virtual number is right for you, especially if you can also use it for business.
