Telegram News 7 min read 27.11.2025 Updated: 27.11.2025

How To Use Telegram Without a Phone Number

Learn how to use Telegram with an anonymous or virtual number, hide your real number, and stay private.

Millions of people use Telegram every day, but one of the first hurdles is signing up with a phone number. Not everyone wants to share their personal number with an app, especially one used for large groups and global communities. The question many ask is simple: how to use Telegram without a phone number?

The good news is that there is a way, but not in the way most people think. Telegram still requires some type of number for verification, but there are now safe methods that let you protect your privacy, avoid exposing your personal SIM, and even hide your number completely once your account is set up.

This guide explains how those methods work, step by step, and shows you how to keep your identity private while using Telegram.

What Telegram Requires

Telegram uses phone numbers as a way to identify accounts and fight spam. When you create an account, Telegram sends a one-time code by SMS or voice call to confirm you own that number. Without completing this step, you can’t open an account.

That doesn’t mean you’re stuck using your personal SIM card forever. Telegram now offers anonymous numbers through its own marketplace, and you can also use alternate methods like VoIP or landlines for the verification step.

Once you’re in, you can lock down your privacy settings so no one sees your number at all.

In 2025, Telegram introduced anonymous numbers with the prefix +888. These numbers are sold through Telegram’s official marketplace called Fragment. They work just like regular numbers for verification, but are not tied to a personal SIM.

What Is Fragment?

Fragment is a Telegram-run platform where you can buy usernames, collectible identities, and now anonymous numbers. The process runs on blockchain, and once you purchase a +888 number, it’s yours to keep.

Creating An Account With +888

1. Visit the Fragment website and browse available anonymous numbers.
2. Purchase a +888 number using the payment options supported (usually crypto or TON).
3. Open Telegram and start the sign-up process.
4. Enter your new +888 number when asked for verification.
5. Check the Fragment for the one-time code and enter it into Telegram.

Once the account is active, you can use it just like any other Telegram profile. The big difference is that your identity stays private since the number isn’t linked to a mobile carrier.

After Registration

Choose a username so others can contact you without ever needing your number.
Go into Settings → Privacy & Security → Phone Number and set “Who can see my number” to Nobody.
Adjust the “Who can find me by my number” option to control whether people can search for you this way.

Alternatives To Your Personal SIM

If you don't want to use a +888 number, there are other ways to get through the verification step. Keep in mind that results vary, and not every service is reliable.

Virtual Number Services

Some online services rent temporary numbers for receiving SMS codes. These can work with Telegram, but many numbers are already flagged for abuse. If you try this route, be prepared that the code may never arrive, or the number might be rejected.

VoIP Numbers

Certain VoIP providers give you numbers that can receive SMS or calls. These are often more stable than free temporary sites. For example, Google Voice in supported regions or other subscription-based providers.

Landline Verification

Telegram can also send a code by voice call if SMS fails. This means you can technically use a landline to verify, as long as you can answer the call and hear the code.

These methods are useful for people who need a second account, want to test features, or simply avoid linking their main SIM. Just remember that using unreliable providers comes with the risk of losing access later if the number is recycled.

Hide Your Phone Number In Telegram Settings

Even if you signed up with your personal number, you don't have to let anyone else see it. Telegram gives you full control over who can view your number and whether people can find your profile through it.

Here's how to hide it:

1

Open Telegram and go to Settings.
2

Select Privacy and Security.
3

Tap Phone Number.
4

Set 'Who can see my number' to 'Nobody' or 'My Contacts'.
5

Adjust 'Who can find me by my number' to control discovery.

Once these settings are active, other group members will only see your display name and username. Your number stays hidden.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

SMS Code Doesn't Arrive

Double-check that the number is correct.
Wait for the voice call option to appear and use that instead.
Switch off any VPNs that may block the connection.

+888 Number Not Verifying

Make sure you purchased it correctly on Fragment.
Confirm you're entering the right code.
Restart Telegram and try again.

Virtual Number Blocked

If you get an error, that provider's numbers may be blacklisted. Try a different service or use an anonymous +888 number instead.

Lost Access To Your Number

Without access to the verification number, you can't recover your account. Always keep a backup method for recovery.

Privacy And Legal Considerations

Telegram is built with privacy in mind, but it doesn’t guarantee complete anonymity. Since 2024, the platform has stated that it may share limited details such as phone numbers or IP addresses if required by a valid court order in serious cases. For most people, this never becomes an issue, but it’s worth knowing that there are boundaries to how private the service can be.

Another area to be careful with is virtual numbers. Some providers recycle them, which means that someone else could potentially gain access to the same code in the future. Others operate in ways that don’t fully respect Telegram’s terms.

Boost Engagement Without the Wait

Telegram channels often struggle with the awkward early phase where posts are sent out, but engagement remains low.

It’s not always because the content is weak. Sometimes, it’s simply a matter of lack of visibility.

That’s where Telegram Auto Likes can make a real difference. By setting up automatic likes for every new post, you create an instant sense of activity that encourages others to join in. People are far more likely to interact when they see existing engagement, and likes are one of the simplest ways to build that momentum.

With BuyCheapestFollowers, setup is quick, delivery begins almost immediately, and your posts receive the boost they need to stand out in busy feeds. It’s a smart way to kickstart growth without extra work on your end.

Conclusion

While Telegram still requires a number at sign-up, you don’t have to hand over your personal SIM card. With the launch of +888 anonymous numbers and privacy settings that let you hide your details, you can use Telegram without exposing your identity. Virtual numbers and landlines are also options, though they carry more risk.

The best approach is to choose a method that balances convenience with security. Whether you go with a +888 number or adjust your settings after registering, you now have clear steps to keep your privacy intact while enjoying everything Telegram has to offer.

FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions |

Can I use Telegram without a phone number?

No. Telegram requires a number to verify your account. You can, however, use an anonymous +888 number instead of your personal SIM.

Is an anonymous +888 number safe to use?

Yes. These numbers are sold directly through Telegram’s Fragment platform and work like regular numbers for verification.

Can I hide my number after I sign up?

Absolutely. Go to Privacy and Security → Phone Number and set visibility to Nobody.

What happens if I lose access to my number?

You may lose your account. Always keep a recovery option available and store your number details somewhere safe.

Do virtual numbers work with Telegram?

Sometimes, but not always. Many free virtual numbers are blocked. Paid providers may work, but there’s always a risk of losing access.

Neo is a content and growth strategist with a sharp eye for trends. She creates forward-thinking content that drives engagement and long-term visibility across social platforms