Hey everyone:

I have been out of the country (United States) for about a year and a half, and one thing I was really missing out on was the access to text messages on my US cellphone. Before I left I was using Cricket Wireless (for $35/mo), and unfortunately my phone number was associated with so many services that just “love” sending text messages for verification. So I was locked out of some of them.

I tried switching to Google Voice, that allows to receive text messages and calls via Wi-Fi pretty much anywhere in the world, but the problem is that some services do not accept VOIP phone lines, like Google Maps. (Examples of such service: Coinbase, Experian, etc.)

So my question. What do you guys use to receive text messages for your US-based phone line while abroad? Ideally I’m looking for a service that would allow me to read text messages via their website.

PS. I am talking primarily about 2FA codes that companies “love” to send to cellphones. I am obviously not using it to communicate with friends and family. I use WhatsApp for that.

  • Opt6740@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    For such things I was using wifi calling feature of mobile phone and I think company got no clue which way your text goes. You can check if there are other confirmation methods than sms like mail, app or google auth. I changed authorization in my bank to their mobile app, which is IMO safer.