How to log into WhatsApp if your phone number is lost?

How to log into WhatsApp if your phone number is lost - briefly?

To log into WhatsApp without your original phone number, you can use the "Change Number" feature within the app settings. This process will migrate all your chat history and contacts to the new number.

How to log into WhatsApp if your phone number is lost - in detail?

Logging into WhatsApp without access to your original phone number can be challenging but not impossible. There are several methods you can try, each with its own set of requirements and limitations. Below, we will explore these methods in detail.

Method 1: Verification via SMS to a New Number

If you have lost access to your original phone number but still have the SIM card, you can request a new verification code by following these steps:

  1. Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device.
  2. Enter Your Old Phone Number: When prompted for your phone number, enter the old number that was associated with your account.
  3. Request Verification Code: Click on "Send SMS" to request a new verification code.
  4. Receive Code on New Device: The verification code will be sent to the new device where you have inserted the old SIM card.
  5. Enter the Code: Enter the received code into WhatsApp on your original device.

Method 2: Verification via Voice Call

If you cannot receive SMS, you can try verifying your account through a voice call instead. Follow these steps:

  1. Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device.
  2. Enter Your Old Phone Number: When prompted for your phone number, enter the old number that was associated with your account.
  3. Request Call: Select "Call me" instead of "Send SMS".
  4. Answer the Call: Wait for the call and answer it to receive the verification code.
  5. Enter the Code: Enter the received code into WhatsApp on your original device.

Method 3: Contact WhatsApp Support

If you no longer have access to the old SIM card or cannot receive calls/SMS, you will need to contact WhatsApp support for assistance. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device.
  2. Enter Your Old Phone Number: When prompted for your phone number, enter the old number that was associated with your account.
  3. Request Support: If verification fails multiple times, you will be given an option to contact support. Click on "Need help?" or a similar option.
  4. Follow Instructions: Follow the instructions provided by WhatsApp support. You may need to provide additional information such as your email address associated with the account for verification purposes.
  5. Wait for Response: WhatsApp support will review your request and respond with further instructions, which could include resetting your account or providing a new phone number.

Method 4: Using Email Address for Verification (if available)

If you have previously associated an email address with your WhatsApp account, you can use it to log in again:

  1. Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device.
  2. Enter Your Old Phone Number: When prompted for your phone number, enter the old number that was associated with your account.
  3. Request Email Verification: If you have previously linked an email address to your WhatsApp account, you can request a verification code via email.
  4. Check Your Email: Open your email inbox and look for a message from WhatsApp containing the verification code.
  5. Enter the Code: Enter the received code into WhatsApp on your original device.

Important Tips:

  • Always ensure that your account is secure by enabling two-factor authentication and regularly backing up your chat history.
  • If you are unable to recover your account through any of these methods, it might be necessary to create a new WhatsApp account using a different phone number.

By following these detailed steps, you should be able to log into your WhatsApp account even if you have lost access to your original phone number.