Masking numbers in WhatsApp is crucial for several reasons, especially in today’s digital age where privacy and security are paramount. You might not want to expose your personal phone numbers to strangers or unauthorized parties. It helps in safeguarding yourself against potential threats such as phishing attacks, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
Masking numbers also allows companies to use a single, consistent contact number for customer interactions, which can improve brand image and customer trust. Customer service representatives can use masked numbers to handle inquiries without revealing their personal contact details, ensuring a seamless and secure communication process.
Here are a couple of strategies to hide your numbers in WhatsApp.
Method 1: Using Virtual Numbers
What are Virtual Numbers?
Virtual Numbers are phone numbers that are not directly associated with a physical phone line but are linked to a pre-existing phone number. They use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which transmits voice and data over the internet. You can showcase this number in place of your own number in WhatsApp, thereby concealing your actual number.
How to Get a Virtual Number?
Choose a virtual number provider that offers good customer support, competitive pricing, and positive reviews. Some popular providers include Google Voice, Twilio, and Grasshopper.
After choosing the provider, sign up for an account and register for a virtual number.
How to Mask your Number Using a Virtual Number?
To set up the virtual number on WhatsApp, first, you need to start the registration process on the app. When asked to provide your phone number, enter the virtual number you registered.
WhatsApp will confirm your virtual number after its verification process.
Once the verification is complete, you can use WhatsApp with your masked number.
By following these steps, you can mask your phone number on WhatsApp using a virtual number, ensuring a secure and private communication experience.
However, without proper security measures, virtual numbers can be susceptible to unauthorized access and other online dangers. Using virtual numbers also means relying on third-party providers for service and support, which can be a limitation if the provider experiences issues.
Method 2: Using WhatsApp API (Preferred Method)
What is WhatsApp API?
The WhatsApp API enables businesses to utilize WhatsApp messaging for their communication channels. Unlike the standard WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business apps, which are designed for individual and small business use, the WhatsApp API is tailor-made for medium to large enterprises that require substantial communication.
Steps to Mask Numbers Using WhatsApp API and Heltar
Heltar provides the WhatsApp Business API with advanced features like automated customer engagement, bulk messaging, and chatbot integration. Masking numbers here is really straightforward, without the need for adjusting any API and no additional cost is incurred.
Register for the WhatsApp Business API through a Business Solution Provider like Heltar.
After registering, go to settings in your account.
3. Click on manage team permissions.
4. There you will find an option to mask your number. Save after making the changes.
5. Once everything is set up, you can begin using WhatsApp with the masked number, which is displayed in a format like 9177*****143, ensuring that your personal or business phone number remains private.
By following these steps, you can hide your phone number on WhatsApp using the API, ensuring better privacy and security in your conversations.
The WhatsApp API easily integrates with existing systems, providing a seamless workflow. With it, you can also create team inboxes and no-code chatbots, send bulk messages on a single click and more. Additionally, it is incredibly cost-effective, making it an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes.
Conclusion
While virtual numbers provide privacy and flexibility, they rely heavily on internet and can be complex to set up. WhatsApp API, with its enhanced capabilities and integration features, offers seamless service with automated messaging workflows. Additionally, the API ensures compliance with WhatsApp's policies, enhancing security and reliability.
With Heltar, businesses can automate workflows, send targeted bulk messages, and provide efficient customer support. The platform easily integrates with existing systems, providing a cohesive communication workflow. By using Heltar's solutions, businesses can enhance their customer service, boost engagement, and maintain a professional image while ensuring privacy and security.
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