Whether for business or personal reasons, obtaining a secondary, or “fake,” phone number can be a valuable tool for privacy and convenience. For instance, when arranging a first date through platforms like Tinder, you might prefer not to disclose your primary phone number immediately, which is a common and understandable concern.
Having a fake number essentially provides you with a second line, allowing you to separate your personal communications from other interactions. Several applications offer free services to acquire such numbers. These apps enable you to maintain your privacy while still being able to communicate as needed.
What is Fake Number?
Fake phone numbers are unassigned to a genuine phone line or service provider and serve to conceal the caller’s or sender’s true identity. They are frequently employed in situations where individuals wish to protect their real phone number, such as when placing confidential advertisements, registering for services, or participating in surveys. It is crucial to understand that these numbers are not legitimate and cannot be utilized for official purposes.
Is Using a Fake Number a Crime?
While the use of a fake phone number is generally not illegal in most countries, its application for fraudulent activities or to evade law enforcement can lead to severe legal repercussions and criminal penalties.
Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the specific laws in your jurisdiction and to use fake phone numbers responsibly. Employing a fake number to register for online services or make purchases may result in the suspension or banning of your account. Furthermore, if you are found to have used a fake phone number for fraudulent purposes, you could face significant legal consequences.
Free Fake Number Apps
Google Voice
Google Voice, available since 2009, allows you to assign a number to your iPhone or Android device. To begin, you’ll need a US-based phone number for registration.
Before signing up, you must set your location to the USA using a VPN app or browser extension. This is crucial; otherwise, you’ll encounter a “Google Voice is not currently available in your country” error.
Steps to Get Your Google Voice Number
- Visit the Google Voice website.
- Click on “For Personal Use” and select the “Web” option from the menu.
- Log in to Google using your Gmail account.
- You’ll be prompted to enter a city or area code. Choose any city and select a free Google Voice number from the provided list.
- Next, you’ll need to provide a phone number to receive a 6-digit verification code from Google.
- To obtain a temporary number for this purpose, install the TextNow app (available on Android | iOS).
- Enter the TextNow number you acquired into the section requested by Google and tap “Send code.”
- Once you receive the code, enter it into Google Voice to complete the verification process.
After successful verification, you’ll receive a notification confirming that your Google Voice number is ready to use. If you don’t receive a verification code immediately, you can request it again.
Burner
Burner is a mobile application that allows users to generate temporary, fake phone numbers for diverse uses. This enables you to make calls, send texts, and exchange voice messages without disclosing your primary phone number.
Numbers created with Burner can be active for a specified duration, such as one day, one week, or one month. Upon expiration, the number becomes invalid, and any subsequent calls or messages to it will not be received.
Burner is particularly useful in scenarios where you need to provide a phone number for online transactions, dating applications, or other situations where maintaining personal privacy is desired. The app further enhances privacy and security through features like call forwarding, private voicemail, and message encryption.
It is crucial to understand that while Burner numbers offer a degree of anonymity, they must not be used for illegal activities or to harass others.
TextFree
TextFree, an application available for both Android and iPhone, offers a free fake number service. Users can send unlimited text messages and make up to 60 minutes of voice calls per month without charge. While the app does contain advertisements, there is an option to use TextFree ad-free. Additionally, users can purchase an extra 100 minutes of talk time for $1.99.
It is important to note that consistent use of your assigned number is required; otherwise, you risk losing access and will need to register for a new number.
Dingtone
Dingtone offers a free fake phone number, providing unlimited voice calls and texts, though users should be prepared for disruptive advertisements within the application. To maintain access to your number, consistent app usage is necessary, as inactivity may result in its loss.
For international calls, Dingtone allows users to purchase in-app credits. Additionally, free credits can be earned by watching advertisements or by referring new users to the app, which can then be utilized for various in-app purchases.
TextMe
TextMe, previously known as FreeTone, offers a free option for obtaining fake phone numbers. Similar to TextFree and Google Voice, TextMe primarily supports messaging and voice calls within the US and Canada. However, if you are located outside these countries, you can still use TextMe by setting your location to the US via a VPN application or browser plugin. This step is unnecessary if you reside in the US or Canada.
While the in-app advertisements can be somewhat intrusive, TextMe remains a viable choice for users seeking a permanent number without incurring subscription fees.
Telos
Telos is a useful tool for obtaining a free fake phone number, specifically a US-based one. This number allows you to easily make calls to anyone, anywhere in the world.
After installing the Telos application on your phone, you will need to register for an account. Upon successful registration, you will have the option to create a secondary number. The number you acquire through Telos enables you to send and receive SMS messages, in addition to making and receiving phone calls.
Cloud SIM App
For those seeking an alternative phone number, the Cloud SIM App presents a compelling option. This application provides free in-app calling and messaging, along with the unique ability to create and customize up to four distinct profiles. When you switch between these profiles, your number remains private and cannot be deciphered, ensuring your anonymity.
Talkatone
Talkatone is a mobile application that enables users to make calls and send texts over Wi-Fi or cellular data, without consuming their cellular plan’s minutes. It allows free calling, texting, and sending pictures or videos to anyone within the US and Canada.
While the app can be used for free within certain limitations, additional features can be unlocked through in-app purchases.
YouMail
YouMail is another excellent option for obtaining a free phone number. It allows you to utilize up to 25 different phone numbers at no cost. With these numbers, you can make calls, send texts, and exchange voice messages.
Additionally, YouMail offers advanced features such as automatic response for missed calls and voicemails. While primarily a call and text service, you also have the flexibility to use it solely as a voicemail service.
Dialpad
Dialpad, developed by the creators of Google Voice, offers a reliable service that allows you to use a fake phone number for free during an initial 14-day trial period.
To begin using your fake number with Dialpad, simply follow these two steps:
- Visit dialpad.com/signup and register for the free 14-day trial. You can expedite this process by signing up with your Google or Microsoft 365 account.
- Follow the prompts to choose your desired fake phone number.
This 14-day trial period allows you to fully test and evaluate the application’s features. If you are not satisfied with the service, you have the option to close your account at the end of the trial without any cost.
Numero eSIM
Numero eSIM is a free application designed to provide users with temporary or permanent virtual phone numbers for a variety of uses, including business, personal communication, and online transactions.
With Numero, users can select either a local or international phone number, enabling them to make and receive calls and text messages, and even set up voicemail. The app also offers a range of features aimed at enhancing privacy and security, such as call recording, call forwarding, and customizable caller ID.
A significant benefit of using Numero is its ability to safeguard your primary phone number, allowing you to communicate without exposing personal information. This feature is particularly valuable for online interactions, dating applications, or business calls where you prefer to keep your personal number private.
To acquire a second virtual phone number using the app, follow these steps:
- Install the application on your device.
- Upon launching the app, select your country code and enter your existing phone number. You will then receive a verification code via SMS; enter this code to verify your phone number.
- Once your phone number is verified, you can choose a new virtual phone number from the list of available options.
- Select your preferred phone number and confirm your choice.
You can then utilize this secondary phone number for various purposes, including making calls, sending text messages, and registering for online services that require a phone number.
2ndLine
2ndLine is a comprehensive business phone application designed to provide a secondary phone number alongside your personal one. The app offers a free number with ad support and includes unlimited local calls and SMS services. For users seeking an ad-free experience and additional premium features, a paid version is available.
Upon downloading 2ndLine, you can select a virtual phone number and immediately gain access to unlimited calls from this additional line on your phone. Beyond free local calls and SMS, the app also provides affordable rates for international calls.
Unlike many similar applications, 2ndLine is exclusively available on Android devices. Essentially, 2ndLine functions as a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service, meaning it leverages your mobile data or Wi-Fi connection for communication rather than your cellular network. This ensures that calls and SMS made or received using 2ndLine do not appear on your regular phone bill. The service also includes voicemail functionality, with voicemails appearing as audio files directly within your conversations, which can be played with a simple tap.
