Tired of being asked for your phone number just to use ChatGPT? You’re not the only one. While OpenAI requires number verification to prevent spam and manage regional access, many users value their privacy or simply can’t provide a valid number. The good news? You can still use ChatGPT—or similar tools—without it.
In this article, you’ll discover five simple ways to use ChatGPT without a phone number, including temporary number services, WhatsApp in supported regions, browser extensions, and alternative chatbots that don’t require sign-up at all. If privacy matters to you, this guide will show you how to chat smarter—no number needed.
Can You Use ChatGPT Without a Phone Number?
Officially, OpenAI requires phone number verification to create a ChatGPT account. This helps prevent spam, ensures user authenticity, and controls access based on regional availability. Unfortunately, most virtual phone services (like Google Voice or TextNow) are blocked.
That said, there are alternative methods and platforms where number verification is not needed, or where creative workarounds exist.
1. Use Temporary or Disposable Numbers (With Caution)
Some users choose to verify ChatGPT using online services that offer temporary or disposable phone numbers. These tools often use real mobile carrier numbers rather than VoIP, which can increase the chances of successful verification. They allow you to receive free SMS with a verification code without linking your personal phone number, helping maintain your privacy while using ChatGPT.
2. Verify with WhatsApp (Available in Select Countries)
In certain regions, OpenAI offers an option to verify your account using WhatsApp instead of SMS. This applies mainly to users in countries like:
- India
- Pakistan
- Indonesia
- Nigeria
- Turkey
- UAE
- Malaysia
- Vietnam
- Ukraine
- Israel
- Egypt
When signing up, select your country and check if a “Verify via WhatsApp” option appears. If you’re using a VPN, make sure it’s set to the correct region, or disable it entirely. Once selected, you’ll receive a verification code through WhatsApp instead of regular SMS.
3. Use a ChatGPT Extension
Some browser extensions provide ChatGPT functionality without the need for an OpenAI account. These extensions integrate OpenAI’s technology but allow more flexible sign-in options or no sign-in at all. Popular extensions include those for browsers like Google Chrome, Brave, Vivaldi, and Mozilla Firefox. These allow direct access to ChatGPT-powered chatbots, bypassing the phone number verification step.
These extensions let you interact with AI easily without going through the full sign-up process for OpenAI. If you’re looking to access GPT-powered responses on the go without the hassle of creating a new account, these extensions are a convenient and seamless option.
4. Try Other Chatbot Interfaces That Use GPT Technology
Some apps and platforms provide access to GPT models through their own interfaces, removing the need for OpenAI sign-up altogether. These alternatives allow you to interact with AI models and receive GPT-style responses without the need for an OpenAI account.
- Snapchat My AI – Snapchat’s built-in chatbot is powered by ChatGPT. You only need a Snapchat account to access it, with no phone number required. It’s a fun, conversational AI feature integrated within the Snapchat app.
- ChatGPT Bots on Reddit – The official /r/ChatGPT subreddit has a community-run Discord server where you can use GPT-powered bots without needing a sign-up or phone number. You just join the server and start chatting.
These alternatives offer great flexibility if you’re just looking to experiment with AI conversations or access GPT-style responses without going through the full sign-up process with OpenAI.
5. Use ChatGPT Alternatives That Don’t Require a Phone Number
If avoiding phone verification is your top priority, consider using alternatives to ChatGPT that don’t require a number at all. These options use their own language models or offer similar capabilities:
- Google Bard – Google’s own AI assistant, accessible with just a Gmail account.
- Gemini – A new AI assistant from Google, providing intelligent responses without requiring phone verification.
- Bing Chat – Powered by GPT-4, this Microsoft-powered chatbot offers a similar experience to ChatGPT and is available through a Microsoft account, without needing a phone number for verification.
These alternatives give you access to AI-powered conversations without the need for phone number verification, allowing you to explore various AI models for free or with minimal setup.
Bonus Tip: Ask a Friend to Help
If you trust someone who already has a ChatGPT account, you can ask them to help verify your account. OpenAI allows one number to be used for up to two separate accounts. Just remember that if they have access to your number, they could reset your password, so only do this with someone you trust completely.
Additional Tips for Staying Private While Using ChatGPT
Use VPNs and Privacy Browsers
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection, hiding your IP address and protecting your location and online activity. Pairing a VPN with a privacy-focused browser like Brave or Tor can add another layer of security, making it harder for websites to track you.
Avoid Linking Real Personal Accounts
Avoid connecting your main email, phone number, or social media accounts when signing up for ChatGPT or related services. Instead, use disposable emails or accounts created specifically for anonymous use to minimize the risk of exposing personal data.
Regularly Clear Cookies and Browsing History
Cookies can store a surprising amount of information about your browsing habits. Regularly clearing cookies, cache, and browsing history helps prevent sites from tracking your activity and building a digital profile.
Use Temporary or Anonymous Email Services
Instead of using your primary email address, consider services like ProtonMail, Tutanota, or temporary email providers when creating an account for ChatGPT access. This helps keep your inbox safe from spam or potential breaches.
Disable Third-Party Cookies and Tracking
Most browsers allow you to block third-party cookies and tracking scripts. Turning these off can prevent advertisers and other services from collecting information about your online behavior.
Review App Permissions
Review its permissions carefully if you’re using a ChatGPT app or browser extension. Only allow access to what’s necessary, and deny permissions like access to contacts, camera, or microphone unless you truly need them.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Always create strong, unique passwords for any accounts you set up. A password manager can help you generate and securely store passwords without having to remember each one manually.
Conclusion
Using ChatGPT without a phone number may seem tricky at first, but as you’ve seen, it’s completely possible with the right methods. Whether you opt for a temporary number, explore WhatsApp verification, use browser-based tools, or turn to reliable alternatives, there are multiple ways to access AI chat features while maintaining your privacy.
From privacy-conscious users to those simply lacking access to a valid number, these flexible solutions help you engage with cutting-edge AI on your terms. You don’t have to compromise your personal data just to have a conversation. Choose the method that works best for you, and take control of how you interact with AI in the digital world.