3 min read
Why a made-up number doesn’t work
A verification code is sent to whoever owns the number. If you invent one, either it doesn’t exist and the app rejects it, or it belongs to a real person, who now gets your code and could log in to your account.
What about 555 numbers?
Numbers like 555-0100 to 555-0199 in North America are reserved for films and examples. They can’t receive SMS, so apps won’t send a code there.
What people usually mean by “fake”
Most people searching for a fake number just don’t want to give their real one. That’s a fair goal, and a real temporary number does it: the code arrives, only you can see it, and your personal number stays private.
Your options
- Email or Google/Apple sign-in, when the app offers it
- A private temporary mobile number, balance back if no code arrives
- A second SIM or eSIM if you need the number for months