
Use a Virtual Number to Verify WhatsApp Without Personal Details
The most popular way to skip your personal phone number is using a virtual number. I’ve used this method for my side projects, and it works if you pick the right service. Let’s break it down.
Get a Virtual Number From a Trusted Provider
First, you need a reliable virtual number service. Here’s how to pick and set one up:
I once tried a random free virtual number service, and WhatsApp never sent the code. Switching to TextNow fixed it—so stick to well-known tools.
Verify WhatsApp Using the Virtual Number
Once you have your virtual number, set up WhatsApp in 3 steps:
Pro tip: If you use WhatsApp Web, make sure to log out when using public computers to keep your account safe.
Link Your WhatsApp Business Account to Email
If you use WhatsApp for business, linking your email is a game-changer. It lets customers contact you via email and helps with account recovery. Here’s how:
Switch to WhatsApp Business Account
First, upgrade your regular account to a business profile:
I helped a local bakery do this last month—their customers now send reservation requests via email or WhatsApp, and it’s made their workflow way smoother.
Connect Email to Your Business Profile
Linking your email takes 3 quick steps:
This link lets customers reach you without using WhatsApp, which is perfect for those who prefer email over messaging apps.
Common Questions About WhatsApp Web and Email Registration
Let’s answer 3 of the most asked questions about WhatsApp Web and email links.
Question: Can I use WhatsApp Web without a personal phone number?
> No, you can’t use WhatsApp Web without a registered WhatsApp account linked to a phone number—but you don’t have to use your personal one. WhatsApp Web is an extension of your mobile account, so it requires scanning a QR code with your phone. However, you can register WhatsApp with a virtual number first, then use that account for WhatsApp Web. For example: Get a TextNow virtual number, verify WhatsApp with it, then scan the QR code for WhatsApp Web. Just remember: If your virtual number expires, your WhatsApp account (and Web access) will be lost. I use this method for my freelance project, and it works as long as I renew my virtual number every 3 months.
Question: How do I forward WhatsApp Web messages to my email?
> Forwarding WhatsApp Web messages to email is easy with the export feature. Here’s how: Log into WhatsApp Web → open the chat you want to export → click the three dots → select “More” → “Export chat”. Choose to export with or without media, then select your email app (like Gmail) to send the chat to your inbox. For automatic forwarding, use tools like Zapier: Create a workflow that triggers when you get a new WhatsApp message (via the WhatsApp Business API) and sends it to your email. Free Zapier plans have limits (like 5 zaps/month), but paid plans let you forward unlimited messages. I use this for my client chats—every message goes to my email and WhatsApp, so I never miss a query.
Question: Is it safe to use virtual numbers for WhatsApp Web registration?
> Using virtual numbers for WhatsApp Web is safe if you pick a reputable provider. Trusted services like Google Voice, Twilio, or TextNow encrypt your data and don’t share your personal info with third parties. However, free or unknown providers are risky: Some sell your email data to advertisers, and their numbers are often flagged as spam by WhatsApp (leading to account suspension). To stay safe: Avoid free services for sensitive use, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your virtual number account, and never share sensitive info (like credit card details) via the virtual number WhatsApp account. I’ve used Twilio for my business WhatsApp account for over a year—no security breaches, just make sure to renew your subscription on time.
If you try any of these methods, let me know how it goes! I love hearing about people’s hacks for making WhatsApp work better for them.

