Why apps reject VoIP numbers like Google Voice and TextNow
In short
- A VoIP number runs over the internet rather than through a mobile network, and is easy to get in bulk, so many apps refuse them for verification.
- LinkedIn says VoIP numbers don’t work, Airbnb says most virtual numbers may not get its code, and Kleinanzeigen doesn’t allow them.
- Each app decides which numbers it sends codes to, and those rules change.
If an app says your number “isn’t valid” or the code never comes, the kind of number can be the reason. Apps can look up whether a number belongs to a mobile network, a landline or an internet phone service, and many treat internet numbers differently.
What a VoIP number is
VoIP means voice over internet protocol: calls and texts that travel over the internet instead of a mobile network’s SIM. Google Voice, TextNow and Skype numbers are examples. They’re cheap or free, and one person can have many.
Why apps refuse them
Phone verification is meant to tie an account to a person, and to make fake accounts costly. Numbers that anyone can get in bulk work against that, so many apps send codes only to mobile numbers, or limit which internet numbers they accept.
What some apps say
- LinkedIn: mobile and landline numbers are supported, VoIP numbers aren’t.
- Airbnb: some phone types might not get its code, including most virtual numbers such as VoIP services.
- Kleinanzeigen: the number must belong to you, and publicly available numbers and VoIP numbers aren’t allowed.
When a number is refused
Try a different number, or a number from another country. For an account you’ll keep, such as banking or anything that texts sign-in codes, use a mobile number you own. Our guide on whether apps accept virtual numbers covers this in more detail.
On ReserveSMS
Whether an app sends a code to a number is up to the app. If one of our numbers doesn’t get a code within 20 minutes, the money goes back to your balance, so you can try another number or country.
Common questions
What is a VoIP phone number?
A number that works over the internet instead of through a mobile network’s SIM, such as a Google Voice, TextNow or Skype number.
Why won’t an app send a code to my VoIP number?
Many apps only send verification codes to mobile numbers, because internet numbers are easy to get in bulk. LinkedIn, for example, says VoIP numbers don’t work.
How can I tell if an app accepts VoIP numbers?
Check its help centre: some say so plainly. If the app says the number isn’t valid, it usually won’t send to that kind of number.