When you want to register for a Telegram account but are worried about leaking your privacy by using a real phone number, you need a virtual number.
Google Voice (GV) is too complicated, so you need a simple way, which is to use TextNow.
Registering for TextNow is not very demanding, and anyone with basic skills can succeed.
Prerequisites#
- For iOS devices: You need a non-Chinese Apple ID to download the TextNow app.
- A VPN: It is recommended to use freewhales, as it provides direct connections to the United States. Without being in the US or Canada, you cannot register for TextNow.
Registration Process#
- Download the TextNow app on your phone.
- Turn on the VPN and set it to a US location.
- Open TextNow and choose to log in with your Google or Apple account.
- After logging in, do not allow the app to access your location.
- Manually enter an area code, such as 417 or 479, as most others may not be available.
- Select a phone number.
Number Retention Method#
The best way to automatically retain your TextNow number is to subscribe to ads using the assigned US phone number. You will receive ad messages every week, ensuring automatic number retention:
First method: Send "auto" to "67135" and reply with "Y" to subscribe to ad messages. You will receive 4 Autozone (an auto parts brand) ad messages every week. To unsubscribe, send "2".
Second method: Send a message to 555444 with the content "signup" to subscribe.
Third method: Send a message to 22122 with the content "join" to subscribe.