How to Get SMS Verification Without Your Phone Number
TL;DR
- Most services (Twitter, Google, ChatGPT) require SMS verification
- You don't have to give them your real number
- Solution: Data-only eSIM + VoIP app (Google Voice, TextNow, Skype)
- Works anywhere, costs less than $5, completely anonymous
The Problem: Everyone Wants Your Phone Number
In 2025, nearly every online service demands SMS verification:
- Twitter/X - Required for account creation and API access
- Google - Gmail, YouTube, Google Voice all need verification
- ChatGPT - OpenAI requires phone verification
- WhatsApp, Telegram - Can't even install without a number
- Banking apps - 2FA codes sent to your phone
But here's the issue: the moment you give a company your real phone number, you lose privacy.
- Your number is tied to your government ID (SIM registration laws)
- Companies sell your number to data brokers
- You receive spam calls and marketing texts
- Hackers can use it for SIM-swapping attacks
The Solution: Data-Only eSIM + VoIP
Here's how to get a working phone number for SMS verification without revealing your identity:
Step 1: Get a Data-Only eSIM (No ID Required)
Traditional SIM cards require ID verification. But data-only eSIMs don't:
- PikaSim - Zero ID, instant delivery, works in 170+ countries
- No name, no passport, no address required
- Pay with credit card (or crypto if you want full anonymity)
Cost: $0.50-$5 depending on destination. A 1GB eSIM in the US is ~$2.
Step 2: Install a VoIP App
Once you have internet from your eSIM, you can get a virtual phone number from these apps:
| App | Works For | Cost | Anonymity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | Most services (Twitter, banks) | Free | Low (requires Google account) |
| TextNow | Telegram, WhatsApp | Free (ad-supported) | Medium |
| Skype | International services | $3/month | Medium |
| MySudo | Privacy-focused apps | $0.99-$4.99/month | High |
Step 3: Use the VoIP Number for Verification
When a service asks for your phone number:
- Open your VoIP app (e.g., Google Voice)
- Copy your new virtual number
- Paste it into Twitter/Google/ChatGPT
- Receive the SMS code in the app
- Verify and you're done
Real-World Example: Creating a Twitter Account
Here's exactly how this works in practice:
Scenario: You're traveling in Thailand and want to create a Twitter account without revealing your identity
- Buy an eSIM: Get a Thailand eSIM from PikaSim for $3 (1GB, 7 days)
- Install it: Scan QR code, activate cellular data
- Download TextNow: Free app, no account needed
- Get a number: TextNow assigns you a US number (e.g., +1 555-123-4567)
- Sign up for Twitter: Use the TextNow number for verification
- Receive code: Twitter sends SMS to TextNow, you enter the code
- Done: You now have a Twitter account with zero connection to your real identity
Which Services Accept VoIP Numbers?
Not all platforms allow virtual numbers. Here's the breakdown:
✓ Usually Works
- Twitter/X
- Discord
- Telegram
- Most crypto exchanges
~ Sometimes Works
- Google (depends on region)
- WhatsApp (hit or miss)
- Uber/Lyft
✗ Rarely Works
- ChatGPT/OpenAI
- Banks (most require real SIM)
- Government services
- Some dating apps
Why This Is Better Than Burner Phone Services
You might be thinking: "Can't I just use those $1 SMS verification sites?" Here's why that's a bad idea:
| Method | Cost | Privacy | Reusable? | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SMS verification sites | $0.50-$2 per code | Low (shared numbers) | No | High (accounts get banned) |
| Data eSIM + VoIP | $2-$5 one-time | High | Yes | Low |
| Real SIM card | $10-$30/month | Zero (ID required) | Yes | Identity exposure |
Advanced: Maximum Anonymity Setup
If you want zero traceability, here's the pro setup:
- Pay with crypto: Use a privacy coin (Monero) or Bitcoin through a no-KYC exchange
- Use a privacy eSIM: PikaSim accepts cards without billing address
- VPN + Tor: Route all traffic through VPN → Tor for IP anonymity
- Burner email: Use ProtonMail or SimpleLogin for VoIP app signup
- MySudo app: Most private VoIP option (doesn't log activity)
FAQ
Can I use this method in any country?
Yes. Data-only eSIMs work in 170+ countries. VoIP apps work anywhere with internet.
Will services know I'm using a VoIP number?
Some can detect it. Google Voice numbers are flagged by ChatGPT. But TextNow/Skype work on most platforms.
Is this legal?
Yes. Using a virtual number is legal in all countries. However, using it to evade bans or create fake accounts may violate platform TOS.
How long does the VoIP number last?
Depends on the app. Google Voice is permanent (as long as you use it). TextNow expires after 30 days of inactivity.
Can I port my existing number to VoIP?
Yes, but that defeats the purpose of anonymity. If you port your real number, it's still tied to your identity.
Get Started: Anonymous eSIM for VoIP Setup
Ready to set this up? Here's what you need:
Get a Data-Only eSIM (No ID Required)
1GB is enough to set up Google Voice, TextNow, and verify 10+ accounts.