Phone call verification is a common feature used by many online services to verify a user’s identity and prevent fraud. However, sometimes the automated phone verification system fails to work properly, leaving users locked out of their accounts. There are a few key reasons why phone call verification may fail.
Wrong Phone Number Entered
The most common reason for phone verification failure is simply entering the wrong phone number. Most services will only send the verification code to the exact number associated with your account. Even a small typo or missing digit in the phone number can prevent the call or text from going through. Always double check that the phone number entered matches the one on your account.
Poor Cell Reception
Cell phone reception and call quality can vary widely by location. If you request a verification call in an area with poor reception, like a basement, elevator or rural area, the call is more likely to fail or get dropped before you can receive the full verification code. Try requesting the call again from an area with better reception or connect to Wi-Fi calling if available.
SIM Card Not Properly Installed
Your SIM card must be properly inserted and activated to receive phone calls and texts. If your SIM card is damaged, not inserted correctly, or deactivated, the verification code cannot be delivered. Eject and reinsert your SIM card to ensure it is installed properly. You may need to contact your cell provider if it is still not working.
incorrect Default Outgoing Number
Some cell phone providers allow multiple phone numbers to be associated with a single device. If the wrong number is set as the default outgoing number, the verification call will be sent to the wrong line. Check your cell account settings to confirm your primary phone number for outgoing calls and texts is set correctly.
Call Screening App Blocking The Call
Many smartphones now offer call screening features and apps that will automatically block calls from unknown numbers. Since most verification services use anonymous phone numbers, your phone may prevent the call from ever reaching you. Try disabling call blocking services temporarily when expecting a verification call.
Do Not Disturb Mode Enabled
Your phone’s Do Not Disturb mode will block incoming calls and texts with certain exceptions. Make sure automated verification calls are allowed to go through when Do Not Disturb is turned on. You can also disable the feature temporarily while waiting to receive the verification code.
Phone Line Issues
Problems with your phone carrier’s connection or network infrastructure can also disrupt verification calls. Issues like phone line outages, network congestion, number transfer delays and more can prevent calls from arriving correctly. Contact your cell provider if other calls are failing for an extended period.
Incorrect Default Messaging App
If you use a third-party messaging app as your default, the verification text may not appear as it will be sent to your carrier’s default app. Double check your app settings to ensure your primary texting app is set as the default to receive all messages and codes.
Invalid Area Code
Some services will reject phone numbers that do not match the expected area code based on your location or account details. Using an invalid area code for your number, like pasting in an international number, can cause verification failure. Be sure to use a number with the proper domestic area code.
Number Blocked by Carrier
Cell phone carriers allow users to block incoming calls and texts from numbers identified as fraudulent. Sometimes the anonymous numbers used for verification get incorrectly flagged as spam. Your carrier may be automatically blocking the verification call before it reaches you. You may need to contact them to remove the block.
Account Not Set Up for Verification
Some services require users to pre-register their phone number before enabling verification calls. If your account was not initially configured to allow automated phone verification, the system will not be able to call or text you. Check your account settings to ensure your number is enabled to receive verification codes.
Troubleshooting tips
If you are still not receiving call verification codes, here are some steps to troubleshoot the issue:
- Confirm your phone has good cellular reception or is connected to WiFi calling
- Verify your SIM card is inserted properly and activated
- Check that your primary/default phone number is entered correctly
- Disable any call screening apps temporarily
- Turn off Do Not Disturb mode
- Try resetting your phone’s network settings
- Contact your cell provider to ensure your line is active and not blocked
- Ensure your number is enabled for verification on the service account
- Attempt verification again from another cell phone if available
Consider using alternative verification methods
If you continue having issues receiving automated verification calls, most services offer alternative verification methods you can use instead, such as:
- SMS text message verification codes
- Email verification with link to confirm
- In-app verification notification
- Security code sent through authenticated app
- Verification through trusted third party
- Manual verification with customer support
Conclusion
Phone call verification can fail for a number of reasons, from incorrect phone numbers to reception issues. If you are having trouble receiving automated verification calls, first double check your cell service and account setup. Try troubleshooting steps like switching locations, confirming proper SIM setup, disabling call blockers, and allowing Do Not Disturb exceptions. As a last resort, contact your mobile carrier and the service to ensure your number is not blocked and enabled for verification. Many services can also use alternative verification methods like SMS texts, emails, apps or manual customer support if phone calls continue to fail.