Temporary Phone Number FAQ

Everything about temporary phone numbers, SMS verification codes and TempNumber.

What is a temporary phone number?

A temporary phone number is a real mobile number whose incoming SMS are shown on a public web page. You enter the number in a sign-up or test form, and the verification code appears in the inbox here. The number is shared, so it is meant for short, low-risk tasks — not for accounts you need to keep.

Do I need to register to use TempNumber?

No. Pick a number from the list and open its inbox. No name, no password, no sign-up, no SIM card.

Can I receive verification codes with a temporary number?

Yes, for many services. Choose the number, enter it where the code is needed, then open the inbox here — the code usually appears within a few seconds to a few minutes. The inbox refreshes itself every 15 seconds.

Is TempNumber free?

Yes, TempNumber is 100% free. The numbers listed here are free public numbers. There is no paid plan.

Why did my verification code not arrive?

Many large platforms block numbers they recognise as virtual or heavily used. If nothing shows up after two or three minutes, try a newer number, or another country, from the top of the list. Never keep requesting codes on the same number — that only gets it blocked faster. Also check that you did not enter the country code twice.

Can I use a temp number for WhatsApp, Telegram or Google?

You can try, but WhatsApp, Telegram, Google and similar platforms often block shared virtual numbers before sending the code. If the code never arrives, use your own SIM card number for that service.

Are the messages private?

No. Every inbox on this site is public — anyone who opens the same number can read the same messages. Never use a temporary number for banking, payment apps, email or password recovery, or any account you need long term.

Can I send SMS from a temporary number?

No. TempNumber only receives SMS. It is made for reading verification codes and one-time passwords.

How many countries are supported?

The main list shows live numbers from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, and the "More countries" section lists numbers from a public directory that covers 20+ countries.

How long does a temporary number last?

Public numbers are retired and replaced over time. A number can work for days or weeks, but it is never yours to keep — use it once for a code, then pick a fresh one when you need another.

Still stuck? See the step-by-step temporary number guide or contact us.