It’s a simple 10 numbers. But your phone number holds the key to more personal information than you might realize. That’s why when you sign up for an account on the popular video and messaging app Snapchat, a common question users have is, “Can people see my phone number on Snapchat?”
The good news is your number is not inherently visible to anyone on the platform. However, it’s important to stay alert and aware of the dangers of your phone number becoming visible on Snapchat and how to keep your personal information protected while using the social media app.
What Are Snapchat’s Privacy Settings?
Snapchat takes user privacy seriously. Their privacy policy explains how they collect, use, and protect personal information, including your phone number. Through different encryption methods, Snapchat protects your data from any unauthorized access.
The social media platform also constantly updates its security systems to ensure its users are safe from emerging threats. Through regular system updates and ongoing improvements, Snapchat works hard to protect your personal information.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible for your phone number to get into the hands of a cybercriminal or malicious actor through your Snapchat account. That’s why it’s important to use best safety practices and protect your personal information when using Snapchat.
How Does Snapchat Use Your Phone Number?
According to Snapchat, the main purpose of collecting your phone number is to “enhance the user experience” and “ensure account security.” Your phone number can help you verify your account and find other contacts who might already have your number, making it easier to connect with friends and family.
Despite it being a critical part of your user experience on the social media platform, your phone number is not displayed publicly. This means your phone number is not searchable on Snapchat, and other users won’t be able to find it either.
How Can I Adjust Privacy Settings on Snapchat?
Even though your phone number is not displayed on Snapchat, there are still steps you can take to make sure your personal information is not shared on the app. It’s better to be safe than sorry when using social media platforms like this.
How Can I Keep My Phone Number Hidden on Snapchat?
There’s a simple step-by-step way you can make sure other contacts on Snapchat do not use your phone number.
- Open Snapchat: Launch the app and tap your profile icon in the top-left corner.
- Access Settings: Tap the gear icon in the top-right corner to open the settings menu.
- Phone Number Settings: Scroll down to the “Mobile Number” section.
- Adjust Visibility: If you do not want people to find you using your phone number, make sure that the option “Let others find me using my mobile number” is turned off.
With this setting turned off, anyone with your phone number already won’t be able to find you on Snapchat.
Tips for Maintaining Privacy on Snapchat
Snapchat can still be a fun and enjoyable way to connect with friends and family. But, like any social media platform, there are some ways you can ensure you’re staying safe and your personal information is protected when you’re on the app.
Consider these tips and tricks to keep your account secured and your phone number away from the public:
- Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your Snapchat account by setting up two-factor authentication. This will require a second form of verification — like a code sent to your phone number — whenever you log into your account. This ensures that even if someone has your password, they wouldn’t be able to access your Snapchat account without your phone.
- Adjust settings to control who can contact you: You can customize your settings in Snapchat so only your friends or specific people can send you messages or Snaps. This setting ensures that strangers or random people you don’t know can’t contact you unsolicited.
- Avoid sharing your phone number publicly: It’s a best practice to avoid sharing your phone number on social media, like on your stories or in comments where other people can see it.
- Be careful using third-party apps: Snapchat allows some third-party apps to access your account. But when you do this, you open your account up to vulnerabilities from unknown apps and risk potentially exposing your personal information. Make sure only to authorize third-party apps you trust or are condoned by Snapchat.
- Regularly review your settings: Since Snapchat is always updating and changing its app, make sure you check your privacy settings regularly and ensure nothing has changed.
With some extra vigilance and being cautious of your interactions on Snapchat, you can still use the app without your phone number being leveraged or leaked.
What Are the Risks of Your Number Getting Leaked on Snapchat?
Even if it doesn’t seem like a big deal, having your phone number leaked can have serious consequences and put you at risk for cybercrimes. One of the main risks of having your phone number leaked is receiving unwanted messages or harassment from others.
Someone with malicious intent could send spam messages, make harassing calls, or make phishing attempts to your phone. With only your phone number, cybercriminals can gather additional information about you that can put you at risk of identity theft.
Whether it’s capturing sensitive information or gaining access to other platforms and applications, your phone number holds the key to many important personal information you don’t want floating around on the internet.
Scammers can also use your phone number to access your bank account through other security processes. Whether it’s unexpected bills or fraudulent charges, make sure you’re constantly checking your bank accounts to confirm nothing looks suspicious or unfamiliar to you.
As you can see, your phone number holds more power than you realize. That’s why it’s important to keep your phone number hidden on Snapchat.
FAQs
Parents or other individuals who don’t regularly use the social media app Snapchat might have some misconceptions about how the platform uses your information and the best ways to protect it.
Here are some frequently asked questions about Snapchat:
Can someone see my phone number if they add me on Snapchat?
Thankfully, no. Snapchat will not display your phone number to other users, even if you used it to sign up for your account. However, other individuals can use it to find your account. To avoid this, you can turn off the option “Let others find me using my mobile number.”
Can I use Snapchat without providing my phone number?
Snapchat uses your phone number to confirm your account and verify that it’s actually a real person signing up for the app. It is possible to still create an account without using your phone number, but you’ll have to use an email address instead. You also won’t be able to find friends from your contact list without having a phone number to set up your account.
Why does Snapchat ask for my phone number during sign-up?
Snapchat uses your phone number to verify your account, make sure your account stays safe and protected, and connect you with other friends you know through your phone number. It adds an extra layer of security while also improving your user experience.
Does Snapchat sell my phone number to advertisers?
Nope! Your phone number stays private when you use Snapchat.
How do I change the phone number associated with my Snapchat account?
If you want to change the phone number connected to your account for some reason, you can go into your Account Settings and select “Mobile Number.” From there, you’ll get a code for your current number and can update the settings for your new number.
What should I do if my number is leaked on Snapchat?
If your account has been hacked or you suspect someone has used your phone number to access your account, the first step is to reach out to Snapchat. They’ll work to secure your account and verify your identity outside of your phone number.
The Bottom Line
Keeping your phone number private on social media platforms like Snapchat is crucial to protecting your identity and avoiding a compromising situation online. While Snapchat has strict policies in place to prevent your phone number from being shared, staying vigilant and using safe best practices on social media can ensure your number stays private.
If you’re dealing with unwanted spam texts, a compromised Snapchat account, or a victim of a Snapchat scam, Digital Forensics can help. Contact our 24/7 hotline to learn how we can help you navigate a leaked phone number or Snapchat scam.
Sources:
Privacy Policy | Snapchat Privacy
How do I set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Snapchat with SMS?
Third-Party Integrations Data and Privacy – Snapchat Support
