When creating a WhatsApp account, users must provide a valid phone number. However, some may prefer to keep their personal number private, especially when communicating with new or unfamiliar contacts. Although WhatsApp requires a phone number for registration, several strategies and tools can help you use an alternate number, giving the illusion of privacy. This guide explains how to set up WhatsApp using secondary numbers and manage your phone number settings efficiently.
Can You Hide Your Phone Number on WhatsApp?
No, WhatsApp requires a valid phone number to create an account. However, you can use alternate numbers—such as virtual or burner numbers—to keep your real phone number private. Below are different ways to acquire a secondary number and set up WhatsApp securely.
Using a Secondary Number for WhatsApp
To hide your real phone number, a secondary number can be obtained from online services like Google Voice and Talkatone. These services offer virtual numbers for calls, texts, and app verifications.
Google Voice
- Google Voice is free for personal and business use.
- It allows call forwarding, free U.S. calls, and texts.
- You need a Google account to sign up and choose a number.
Talkatone
- Talkatone offers alternate U.S. or Canada-based numbers.
- It allows call and message verification for services like WhatsApp.
- Ads are present, but they don’t affect functionality for basic verification.
Other Apps for Virtual Numbers:
- Burner – Generates disposable numbers for short-term use.
- Hushed – Offers multiple numbers with various features.
- Sideline and Flyp – Provide advanced features for business use.
Setting Up WhatsApp with an Alternate Phone Number
To register WhatsApp with a secondary number, follow these steps:
- Log out from your existing WhatsApp account.
- Enter the new secondary number (from Google Voice or Talkatone).
- Verify the number. Allow WhatsApp to send an SMS to the virtual number.
- Disable automatic detection of SMS codes to manually input the verification code.
- Enter the six-digit code received on the virtual number.
- Set your name for the new account (can be changed later).
With these steps, WhatsApp will associate your account with the new number. Your contacts won’t see your real number unless you share it directly or send messages from it.
How to Change Your WhatsApp Phone Number
If you want to change your WhatsApp number without creating a new account, follow this process:
- Open WhatsApp on your phone.
- Go to Settings > Account > Change Number.
- Enter your old phone number and the new one (e.g., Google Voice number).
- Select Next to proceed.
- If desired, tap Notify Contacts to inform people of the change.
- Click Done to save and verify the new number.
This method ensures that your contacts and chat history are retained while switching to an alternate number.
Using WhatsApp Without a Real Phone Number
While WhatsApp requires a number for registration, it doesn’t have to be your primary one. Here are common methods to use WhatsApp without exposing your real phone number:
1. Virtual Phone Numbers via Apps
Apps like Hushed or Talkatone offer virtual numbers for WhatsApp registration.
2. Temporary Phone Numbers
Services such as Burner generate disposable numbers you can use for short-term verification.
3. Business Numbers via Google Voice
A Google Voice number can double as a personal or business contact for WhatsApp.
Managing Contacts on WhatsApp with a Secondary Number
Even if you use an alternate number, WhatsApp will still access contacts stored on your device. However, the people you message won’t see your personal number unless you notify them. If you frequently chat with new people, using a secondary number can help protect your privacy.
Additional Security Tips
- Enable Two-Step Verification
Activate two-factor authentication to secure your WhatsApp account from unauthorized access. - Update Your Privacy Settings
Go to Settings > Privacy and customize who can see your profile photo, last seen, and status. - Backup Conversations Securely
Use Google Drive or iCloud to back up chats but ensure these backups are encrypted for added security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use WhatsApp Without a Phone Number?
No, a valid phone number is required for registration. However, you can use virtual or burner numbers.
Will My Contacts Know If I Change My WhatsApp Number?
Only if you select the Notify Contacts option when changing your number. Otherwise, they won’t be informed automatically.
How Can I Get a Virtual Number for WhatsApp?
You can use apps like Google Voice, Talkatone, or Hushed to obtain virtual numbers.
Can I Change My WhatsApp Number Without Losing Chats?
Yes, changing your number in WhatsApp settings retains all chat history.
Is It Safe to Use Burner Numbers on WhatsApp?
Yes, burner numbers offer privacy, but ensure you use a trusted app like Burner or Hushed for added security.
Final Thoughts
While WhatsApp mandates phone number registration, using secondary numbers allows you to protect your privacy. Virtual numbers from Google Voice or Talkatone are convenient options. You can also change your phone number inside WhatsApp without losing any messages or contacts. Managing your personal and alternate numbers efficiently lets you communicate securely across different platforms.
