International virtual numbers for verification
Quick answer
An international virtual number is a phone number from a country other than yours. Noir SMS has US, Canadian and UK numbers plus numbers from 190+ other countries, with stock that changes daily. Choose a country where the app is available, because some apps check that your number matches your region or app store. The number receives the code during a 20-minute window; afterwards add your own number or email for recovery.
Maybe the app isn't in your country yet, or you live abroad and need a local-looking number. Foreign numbers can help, as long as you know what apps check.
What apps may check
- That the number's country matches the app store region or your IP location.
- That the number is mobile, not VoIP.
- That the number hasn't been used too many times on the service.
Picking a country
Pick a country where the app operates. For US-centric apps, a US number is safest. For a local app like a delivery or shopping app, pick its home country. The dashboard shows which countries have stock for each service.
Living with a foreign number
An account verified with a foreign temporary number can ask for re-verification later. Add an email and authenticator, and update to a long-term number if you'll keep the account.
Frequently asked questions
Will the app know I'm in another country?
It may see your IP and device settings. A foreign number doesn't hide those.
Can I choose a city?
No, you choose the country only.
Services in this guide
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