When we register on apps, social networks, or dating sites, phone numbers are often used for account verification and identity confirmation. But before sharing this information, it’s important to consider security. How risky is it? We will explore this issue in our article. Additionally, we will introduce you to the method of registering with virtual phone numbers, which help you receive SMS online without the risk of leaking your personal data.
Risks of Your Phone Number Leaking Online
A phone number is a unique identifier that we use for many years. It is linked to numerous apps and online services that we use in our daily lives. Through a phone number, one can obtain information about our location, professional activities, and more. Here are some possible consequences of your phone number leaking:
Spam and Advertising Calls
The most harmless consequence of publishing your number online is spam calls from various companies. It’s no secret that many services collecting mobile numbers for mailings or registration sell their client databases to third parties. As a result, users whose numbers were “leaked” start receiving calls with advertisements or other spam.
Fraud
Alongside spammers, users can be targeted by fraudulent calls. If personal data such as name, age, and other details were provided during registration, scammers could use this information.
Phone Number Lookup
The phone number itself is only part of the user’s personal information, but it often comes with other data. For instance, if the number is listed on a social network profile, anyone can find the account of its owner through it. As a result, strangers can learn the person’s first and last name, social status, relatives (many people link their relatives’ accounts on social networks), presumed financial status, and other information.
How to Use a Virtual Phone Number to Protect Yourself Online?
Registering on websites using virtual phone numbers is the ideal solution for those who do not wish to disclose their personal contact details online. Such a phone number is not linked to your real personal data and helps prevent spam calls and messages to your primary mobile number.
A virtual phone number is a phone number that is not tied to a specific physical device or SIM card. They are often used for a short period of time, typically between 20 minutes and 3 months. Once used, these mobile numbers are automatically deactivated and cannot be reused, ensuring your privacy and security.
How Do I Get a Virtual Phone Number in 2024?
Here’s how to get a virtual phone number using the popular SMS-Man platform, which offers numbers for over 180 countries and regions. Follow this step-by-step guide:
- Go to sms-man.com and create an account.
- Top-up. Log in to your account and top up your balance using any of the available payment methods.
- Select a country. On the main page, select the country for which you need a phone number.
- Select a service. Open the list and choose an online service where you plan to register (for example, social network, messenger or online store).
- After selection, click “Buy SMS” and your virtual phone number will be added to your account.
- Receive SMS with code. Wait until the system sends you a code for registration. Then click the “Get SMS” button next to your order on the SMS-Man platform.
- Complete SMS Verification. Enter the received code to complete the registration.
