Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security method in which users provide multiple ways to verify their identity when logging into an account. Many platforms offer this feature as an extra level of protection in addition to the account’s basic login information such as its username and password. While MFA can involve any number of verification factors, two-factor authentication (2FA) is most common.

One of the most popular factors to verify a user’s identity is SMS verification, in which the user provides a phone number through which to receive a verification code. Other factors include push notifications, authentication apps, and voice-based authentication.

It is not recommended to use your TextUs virtual number as an authentication method for another platform or service. Some virtual numbers do not support inbound authentication messages. If you provided your TextUs virtual number as an authentication method for another platform or service but have noticed that you’re not receiving verification messages, it’s likely a limitation of your virtual number. To prevent these messages from getting lost, we recommend only using personal mobile numbers for identity verification.