Too many online forms ask for your phone number these days, and few of them are trustworthy. For those who want to keep their real number to themselves, phone number generators are a godsend. By using an alternative number, you not only avoid spam but also minimize the risk of your actual digits leaking. Read on to find out how they work and where to get the best one.
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What is a phone number generator?
A phone number generator provides you with a new, usually temporary, phone number to use instead of your real one. By keeping your real number hidden, phone number generators help you maintain your privacy.
These virtual numbers are more than just random strings of digits — they work just like the real deal, allowing you to receive calls, send texts, and verify accounts on websites and apps.
Phone number generators, available as apps or online services, are great for protecting your real number from spammers, scammers, or unwanted marketing. If the generated number starts receiving unwanted calls as well, you can simply generate a new one, ensuring your privacy remains intact.
7 benefits of using an alternative phone number
Using an alternative phone number can offer numerous advantages, especially in situations where privacy, convenience, and security are key. Here are some of the main benefits:
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Setting up new accounts spam-free
When signing up for new accounts on websites or apps, providing your real phone number can lead to unwanted spam or promotional messages. An alternative phone number allows you to register without exposing your primary contact, keeping your inbox clean. If the number starts receiving spam, you can easily dispose of it and get a new one.
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Protecting privacy on online marketplaces
When selling items on platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay, sharing your actual number can lead to unsolicited calls, even after a transaction is complete. An alternative phone number lets you communicate with buyers and sellers without giving away your real contact information. Once the deal is done, you can deactivate the number or block further communication.
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Maintaining the work-life balance
For freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners, maintaining separate lines for personal and business use can be challenging. An alternative phone number allows you to receive business calls, messages, and voicemails without needing a second device. This way, you can keep work and personal life separate and even manage business hours more effectively by turning off the alternative when you’re done with work.
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Secure communication in high-risk situations
For journalists, activists, or anyone in a high-risk situation, safeguarding communication is crucial. Alternative phone numbers, often combined with encrypted messaging apps, provide an extra layer of security, making it harder for unwanted parties to track or intercept calls and messages. This can be especially useful for whistleblowers, those communicating in areas with heavy surveillance, or anyone who needs to keep sensitive conversations private.
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App and software testing
Developers and testers frequently need to create multiple accounts for app and software testing. Using an alternative phone number allows them to sign up for and test their applications without cluttering up their primary contact with verification codes, notifications, or promotional messages. This is particularly beneficial for debugging and ensuring that features like SMS authentication work seamlessly.
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Temporary use for travel or short-term projects
If you’re traveling abroad or working on a short-term project, an alternative phone number can be a convenient solution. You can get a local number to make communication cheaper and more efficient without having to change SIM cards or carry multiple phones. Once your trip or project is over, you can simply discontinue the number.
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Enhancing privacy for online dating
Online dating can sometimes lead to unwanted or overly persistent communication. Using an alternative phone number lets you safely chat with new connections without revealing your primary contact details. If things don’t work out, you can easily cut off communication without worrying about further disturbances.
How do you generate a phone number?
Generating an alternative phone number is easier than ever, thanks to various apps and services designed to give users temporary or secondary lines. Here’s a look at some popular options:
Alternative Number
Surfshark’s Alternative Number is a privacy-focused service that provides users with a secondary phone number without requiring a new SIM card.
Designed for those who prioritize security, Alternative Number masks your real number, making it ideal for online transactions, signing up for services, or protecting your privacy. Currently, Surfshark offers only US numbers (usable anywhere), with plans to expand to other regions. It comes as part of Surfshark’s broader suite of VPN and cybersecurity tools, Surfshark One, with plans starting at around $2.49 per month.
Google Voice
Google Voice is a versatile service that provides a free US-based phone number, allowing users to make and receive calls, send texts, and even set up voicemail. It’s especially popular among freelancers and small business owners who need a dedicated business line.
Google Voice is available in the United States and select international regions, though it’s primarily geared toward US users. The service is free for personal use but only for one number, and business accounts are charged a fee starting at $10 per month per user. One key feature is the ability to use the same number across multiple devices, making it easy to manage communication from your phone, tablet, or computer.
TextFree
TextFree is a mobile app that offers a free US phone number for texting and calling, with ad-supported free options or paid plans for ad removal and additional features.
It’s a great option if you need a temporary number for quick communication or to use when signing up for online services. The app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices. While the basic service is free, you can purchase credits for making international calls or upgrade to a premium plan starting at around $4.99 per month to enjoy an ad-free experience and a more stable connection.
Sideline
Sideline is a business-focused app that provides a second phone number for your existing mobile device. It’s designed for professionals who need a dedicated work line without carrying an extra phone.
Sideline offers US-based phone numbers with features like custom voicemail, team number sharing, and auto-reply, making it ideal for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Sideline plans start at $9.99 per month and include features that allow for seamless call forwarding and voicemail management, making it easy to separate business from personal calls. The app is available in the US and Canada.
What you need to consider before generating an alternative phone number
Provider | Is the provider reputable and does it have positive reviews? |
|---|---|
Availability | Is the service available in your region or country? |
Security features | Does it offer features like call blocking, spam filtering, and secure storage? |
Device compatibility | Can the service be used on your smartphone, tablet, or computer? |
Encryption | Does the service encrypt your calls and messages for added privacy? |
Additional numbers | Can you create multiple numbers under the same account? |
Price | What is the cost, and are there any hidden fees or contracts? |
Why using free phone number generators is usually a bad idea
While free phone number generators can seem tempting, they often come with significant drawbacks that compromise your privacy, security, and overall user experience.
Here are a few reasons why relying on free services might not be the best choice:
Lack of privacy and data security
Free phone number generators usually make money through collecting and selling user data. When you use a free service, you might be giving the provider access to your call history, messages, and other personal information. This data can then be sold to third parties, leading to unwanted marketing, spam, or even more serious privacy concerns. Paid services are more likely to have robust privacy policies and stronger security measures to protect your sensitive information.
Limited features and functionality
Free services typically offer basic features, such as the ability to make and receive calls or texts.
However, they often lack the advanced features that paid services provide, like call forwarding, spam filtering, voicemail management, and secure messaging. For users who need a reliable, full-featured service, free options may not be adequate.
Inconsistent reliability and service quality
Many free phone number generators suffer from poor service quality, including unreliable call connections, dropped messages, or limited network support.
If you need an alternative number for business or other important communication, these issues can cause serious disruptions. Paid services are generally more stable and offer consistent performance because they invest in better infrastructure.
Invasive ads and upselling
To make money, free services often bombard users with ads and frequent prompts to upgrade to premium plans.
These ads can be intrusive and disrupt your experience, making it harder to use the service effectively. Even worse, the ad networks themselves might track your usage, leading to further privacy concerns.
Short lifespan of generated numbers
Free phone number generators may provide temporary numbers that expire after a short period of inactivity.
This can be a problem if you need the number for long-term use, as you might suddenly find yourself disconnected from important accounts or contacts. Paid services typically allow users to keep their numbers as long as they continue paying, offering more reliability for ongoing projects.
Risk of scams and fraud
Some free phone number services have been associated with scams, as they may not verify user identities before issuing numbers.
This makes them attractive to spammers and fraudsters who can use the service for malicious purposes. Unfortunately, this can result in your generated number being flagged or blacklisted, leading to service disruptions or even legal issues.
An alternative phone number can simplify your life
An alternative phone number is a versatile tool that helps you manage communication more effectively, ensuring you stay connected without compromising your privacy. Generating one is simple, with options ranging from privacy-focused tools to business-oriented solutions. Prices, availability, and features vary, so it’s essential to choose the service that best suits your needs — whether it’s for secure communication, managing work-life balance, or registering for multiple online accounts.
FAQ
Can I create a specific phone number?
Most phone number generators do not allow you to choose an exact number, but some services offer customization options like selecting an area code or specific digits for a small fee.
Can I create a mobile number online?
Yes, many online services and apps allow you to generate a mobile number that you can use to make calls, send texts, and verify accounts without needing a physical SIM card.
Can I generate a phone number that works in the US?
Yes, you can generate a US phone number with various services. With Alternative ID, you can get a number that works in any US state, including Texas and California.
