Avoid giving your real phone number to strangers and do this instead: Video
Our phones are a direct line to us, but sometimes we don’t want to give our numbers out to just anyone. They have more information attached to them than we might realize.
Instead of giving your real number to someone on a dating app, sellers on Facebook Marketplace or putting it on your real estate business card, consider this: Get a free second number!
Skip the usual phone providers and use a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) instead. These services make calls over the internet, instead of the standard method of phone poles and cell towers. Many of these numbers can be accessed via a web browser or an app, so you don't need to buy another device, either.
Safe and convenient? Please and thank you!
Watch this video to see how you can get a second phone number for free.
Google Voice number
There are different VoIP apps, but one of the most popular services for this is Google Voice.
Just sign up via the website or app to get a phone number. You can choose the number with a specific area code or tied to a specific city.
Once it’s established, it works just like a regular phone. You can make and receive calls, texts and voicemails. Most Google Voice calls made in the U.S. to the U.S. or Canada are free. However, some some domestic and international calls do have a fee.
Messages and calls made to your Google Voice number can also be automatically forwarded to your actual number, so it comes through just like any other call or text does. To turn this setting on or off, look for the Call forwarding option under Settings.
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What’s my Google Voice number
You can find your Google Voice number under the Account section in your Settings.
Also consider adding it as a note on your phone or in your contact card for an easier way to find it.
Can Google Voice receive texts
Yes, Google Voice can receive texts.
However, you don’t want to use a VoIP number for accounts that require a 2-factor authentication text code. Some banks won’t send codes to these numbers.