The first hour after you get a WhatsApp number matters most: sign in and check it works, turn on two-step verification, and don't rush into adding lots of contacts or broadcasting. Follow these steps to avoid most problems.
First sign-in
- Prepare a phone and network: Use a spare phone or a fresh WhatsApp install on a stable international connection. A number can only be active on one phone at a time.
- Install the official app: On iPhone, download from a non-China App Store; on Android, use Google Play or the official website. Don't use modified apps such as GB WhatsApp.
- Enter the number: Open WhatsApp, accept the terms, choose the number's country, enter the number from your order without the country code and tap Next.
- Enter the code and PIN: Get the 6-digit code as described in your delivery and enter it. If the account has two-step verification, enter the PIN from your delivery.
- Check that it works: Send a message to another number you own or a friend to confirm it works before changing anything. Do this within 1 hour of delivery.
- Turn on two-step verification: Settings → Account → Two-step verification → Turn on. Set your own 6-digit PIN and add an email so no one else can sign in with a code.
- Complete the profile and ramp up slowly: Set a photo, name and about. For the first few days, chat normally and add only a few contacts; don't broadcast or create many groups.
Already have your own WhatsApp on the phone?
One WhatsApp app holds one number, and signing in to a new one logs the old one out. Options:
- Keep your own number in WhatsApp and put the new one in the WhatsApp Business app, so one phone runs both.
- Or use a spare phone just for the new number.
- On a computer: on the phone open Settings → Linked devices and scan the QR code at web.whatsapp.com or in the desktop app; chats sync to the computer.
Most common reasons for bans
| Cause | How to avoid it |
|---|---|
| Sending the same message to many strangers in a short time | Only message customers who agreed to hear from you; add few contacts in the first days |
| Being blocked or reported by many people | Say who you are and why you are writing; don't keep messaging people who don't reply |
| Using modified apps (GB WhatsApp, WhatsApp Plus) or unofficial bulk tools | Use only the official WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business apps |
| Constantly switching network regions or devices | Keep a stable connection; one number per phone |
| Joining or creating many groups quickly | Join groups only as needed; don't add strangers to groups |
FAQ
The code doesn't arrive. Check the country and number, then request it again as described in your delivery. Don't keep tapping resend; repeated failures trigger a wait. If it still fails, contact support within 1 hour of delivery.
Can I switch phones? Yes, but you will need to verify again. For SIM-registered accounts you don't hold the SIM and can't receive SMS codes later, so turn on two-step verification and add an email first, and avoid switching phones or uninstalling the app.
Need a number? Browse the Social (Global Trade) category by type and country, or get a US direct-login account for everyday use.