ChatGPT is the internet's fastest-growing app of all time. It is the hot new toy, but many users who are attempting to sign up for the service are left wondering: "Why does ChatGPT need my phone number?"
While some may find it inconvenient or invasive to provide personal information, there are legitimate reasons why ChatGPT asks for your phone number during signup.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at why ChatGPT needs your phone number and shed light on how OpenAI uses this information.
Why does ChatGPT need your phone number?
OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, states that they require phone number verification during signup for "security reasons." It allows them to verify your account and ensure the platform remains secure.
Phone verification is a common practice used by many online services to ensure that users are real and prevent fraudulent activity, such as the creation of fake accounts or the use of bots to manipulate the platform.
As a bonus, adding a phone number to your OpenAI account can also help the user with account recovery in case they have forgotten their password. It's not all bad, at least.
Does OpenAI sell your phone number to advertisers?
No, OpenAI does not sell your phone number or any other personal information to advertisers or any third-party entities. OpenAI explicitly states that they "don't use your phone number for any other purposes" than for verification.
Moreover, OpenAI's privacy policy clearly outlines how user data is collected, used, and shared within the organization and with its partners, and it complies with all applicable data protection laws and regulations.
So you can rest assured that OpenAI does not use your phone number for marketing or advertising purposes without your explicit consent.
Can you sign up for ChatGPT without giving your phone number?
No, it is not currently possible to sign up for ChatGPT without providing a phone number. A working phone number is mandatory to create an OpenAI account and use ChatGPT for free.
During the account creation process, you will be prompted to enter a valid phone number, and a verification code will be sent to that number via text message. You'll need to enter the code into the ChatGPT website to complete the verification process and activate your account.
This helps them to ensure that you are a real person and that the account is not being created by a bot or automated script.
If you are uncomfortable giving your phone number, you can use one of the ChatGPT alternatives such as Google Bard or Bing AI.