Does WhatsApp Use Your Phone Number?

[Frenchie]

Is WhatsApp linked to your phone number as the primary sign of your identity, or can it function without one? Basically, I want to know the main reasons behind WhatsApp's phone number requirement, in what ways it is used for contacts and verification, and whether your number is visible to other users in the app or not. Also, I wonder if there is any possibility to secure privacy when using WhatsApp with a phone number.

 

[danisjohn]

Yes, WhatsApp uses your phone number as your main identity. It is required for account registration, verification, and contacts syncing. Your number lets WhatsApp connect you with other users and enables messaging, calling, and security features like two-step verification.

 

[bella]

Yeah, WhatsApp is mainly tied to your phone number, it uses it to verify your account and match you with contacts, and people you chat with can usually see your number. I keep things a bit private by tweaking the privacy settings and turning on two-step verification; it helps me feel more secure using it.