Why does WhatsApp say "Failed to send SMS to the specified number"? Try again in an hour. What should I do?

Why does WhatsApp say Failed to send SMS to the specified number? Try again in an hour. What should I do - briefly?

If you encounter the message "Failed to send SMS to the specified number" on WhatsApp, it typically indicates a temporary issue with your network or WhatsApp's servers. To resolve this, wait for an hour and then attempt to send the message again. If the problem persists, check your internet connection and ensure that your device is up-to-date.

Why does WhatsApp say Failed to send SMS to the specified number? Try again in an hour. What should I do - in detail?

If you encounter the message "Failed to send SMS to the specified number" on WhatsApp, it typically indicates a temporary issue with sending verification codes via SMS. This problem can be caused by various factors such as network congestion, carrier limitations, or technical glitches within WhatsApp's system. Here are some detailed steps you can take to resolve this issue:

1. Check Network Connectivity: Ensure that your device has a stable internet connection. If you're using mobile data, try switching to Wi-Fi to see if the problem persists.

2. Wait for an Hour: WhatsApp often suggests waiting for an hour before trying again. This is because the system may be temporarily overwhelmed or experiencing a brief outage. Patience can sometimes resolve the issue without any further action needed.

3. Verify Phone Number Format: Double-check that you have entered your phone number in the correct international format. For example, if you're from the United States, you should enter +1 followed by your area code and phone number (e.g., +1 234 567 890).

4. Enable Call and SMS Permissions: Ensure that WhatsApp has the necessary permissions to access your call logs and send SMS messages. You can check this in your device's settings under "Apps" or "Permissions."

5. Check Carrier Settings: Sometimes, the issue might be related to your mobile carrier. Make sure your phone is set up correctly with your carrier and that there are no restrictions on receiving SMS from short codes.

6. Clear Cache and Data: If you're using an Android device, clearing the cache and data for WhatsApp can sometimes resolve issues. Go to "Settings" > "Apps" > "WhatsApp" > "Storage" and clear the cache and data. Note that this will log you out of WhatsApp, so make sure to back up your chats before doing this.

7. Reinstall WhatsApp: If none of the above steps work, consider uninstalling WhatsApp and then reinstalling it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. This can help resolve any underlying technical issues with the app.

8. Use an Alternative Method: If you're still unable to receive the SMS verification code after waiting for an hour, try using WhatsApp's alternative method of verifying your phone number through a phone call. This option is usually available when you attempt to send the SMS and fail.

9. Contact Support: If the problem persists even after trying all the above steps, it may be necessary to contact WhatsApp support for further assistance. They can provide more specific guidance based on your situation.

By following these detailed steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve the issue with sending SMS verification codes on WhatsApp.