Receiving SMS online means reading a verification code in your browser, on a virtual phone number. The message shows up in your account. You do not need an extra SIM card.
When an on-screen SMS is useful
- Confirming an account you own on an app or website
- Keeping your personal number off a signup you do not want on your SIM
- Receiving a code from a service that asks for a number in another country
- Testing a verification flow on an account you control
Use the number only for legitimate verification of your own accounts, and follow each platform's terms.
How SMSBear delivers the code
- 1Create your SMSBear account
- 2Add credits. The price of each number is shown before you confirm
- 3Choose the service and the country of the number
- 4Copy the number into the site or app that will send the code
- 5Read the SMS in the dashboard while the number is active
Public SMS inboxes are a different product
Free public inboxes reuse the same number for many visitors, so anyone can read the code. On SMSBear the number is reserved for your request during the rental period, and the message is not published on an open page.
What to check before you buy
The number is temporary and only receives the code during the rented period. Delivery depends on the route and the destination platform. If the code does not arrive, refunds to balance follow the rules in the terms of use.