Burner Phone Number: Apps vs One-Time Numbers

A burner phone number is a number you can drop when you are done with it. Burner apps are good for calls and texts with people; for app verification codes, a one-time non-VoIP number works far more often.

What people use burner numbers for

• Selling on marketplaces without sharing your real number.
• Online dating before you trust someone.
• Signing up for apps that will spam your number.
• Short projects and travel.

Burner apps vs one-time numbers

Burner and second-line apps give you a number for weeks or months, for calling and texting people. Their numbers are VoIP, so many apps refuse them for verification. A one-time number here is a carrier mobile number for a single code, held 15 minutes, charged only if the code arrives. A rental keeps the same number for days.

US, UK, Canada and India burner numbers

US numbers are the easiest to find and work with most apps. For local services in the UK, Canada or India, a number from that country helps; see our free numbers by country.

Stay on the right side of the rules

A burner number protects your privacy. Using one to harass people, dodge a ban or commit fraud breaks the law and app rules.

Choosing a burner for your situation

• Marketplace selling: an app number you keep for weeks, so buyers can call back.
• Dating: an app number you can drop, plus the dating app's own chat until you trust someone.
• Sign-ups and trials: a one-time non-VoIP number, so the app's texts never reach your real phone.
• Travel: a local eSIM for data and calls.

When a burner is the wrong tool

Do not put a burner number on accounts you need long term, such as email or money apps: when the number goes, so does your way to recover the account.

FAQ

Are burner numbers legal?

Yes, for privacy. Illegal uses stay illegal whatever number you use.

Do burner numbers work for WhatsApp or Gmail?

App-based burner numbers often fail; a non-VoIP number usually works.

Can a burner number be traced?

The provider knows who bought it; it hides your number from the people and apps you share it with.

How long does a burner number last?

Apps: as long as you pay. One-time numbers: 15 minutes. Rentals: the days you choose.

What is the cheapest burner number?

For one code, a one-time number from a few cents; for calls, a free calling app.

Can I get a burner number without an app?

Yes; one-time and rental numbers here work in the browser.

Related: temporary phone number for verification · second phone number options · non-VoIP numbers.