4 min read
Why X (Twitter) asks for a phone number
X asks for a phone number when it locks an account for suspicious activity, and sometimes at sign-up. It sends a 6-digit code by SMS.
Can you skip the phone on X (Twitter)?
Sign-up with email, Google or Apple is available. Phone checks show up later, mostly when X locks an account.
Your options without a SIM card
X rejects some VoIP numbers and may say the number can’t be used. SMS two-factor login is only for Premium subscribers, so a phone isn’t needed for 2FA.
- Email or Google/Apple sign-in, when the app allows it. Free, and no number at all.
- A second SIM or eSIM. Costs a monthly plan, but the number stays yours.
- A private temporary number from CoveSMS. Only you see the code, and you pay nothing if it doesn’t arrive within 20 minutes.
Step by step: get the X (Twitter) code online
- Buy an X (Twitter) number in your dashboard.
- On X’s phone screen, choose the country and paste the number.
- Ask for the code.
- Enter the 6-digit code from your dashboard.
If the code doesn’t arrive
- If X says it can’t send to the number, cancel for your balance back and try another country.
- Locked accounts sometimes need a captcha first. Complete it, then request the SMS.
- No code within 20 minutes means the price goes back to your balance automatically.
After you’re in: stop depending on the number
A temporary number is single-use. Set up another way in before it closes:
- Turn on two-factor authentication with an authenticator app: Settings › Security and account access › Security.
- Save your backup code from the same screen.
- Keep your own email confirmed in Account information.