Bitcoin Forum

So I noticed that many Bitcoin sites utilize 2 Factor Verification for new registrations.  This requires you to provide your cell # and they send you a code which you type in to verify.

I'm always hesitant to provide my cell # because I want to maintain my anonymity as much as possible.  Does anyone know if the phone # data is stored for 2 Factor Verification?  Of course I know it is for 2 Factor Authentication but I'm specifically referring to 'Verification".

Your phone number is stored in their database and I would never exclude the possibility of our data being sold to be honest, regardless of how reputable the exchange is.

So If you're paranoid, maybe buy a SIM card online, or ask a friend or a family member to use his instead.

I wouldn't recommend using online verification services though, because these phone numbers are usually not unique (and multiple people are using or will use them).

i find it funny that these sites even use cellphone 2FA

would be better if users register a fresh address for sole use of message signing.
and the site just says "sign: 'franky1login21/5/19' to verify"

then only a signature from the known address can prove ownership control of the login

So you are afraid to someone is going to send you spam SMS texts or call you?
I've been using 2 factor authentication ever since I started using crypto wallets and exchange platforms and I have never received any spam SMS or any phone call from an unknown number.
Trust me,your phone number isn't such a sensitive and valuable private information.

until they ping your phone and follow your location data of the number and see everywhere you go

I actually find a 2-factor verification a safer way to secure our wallets upon registration. There's no risk since my number is safe and I would rather take the risk just to keep my wallet safe and secured. It's necessary if you want to assure that you will be the only one who could access your wallet.

Giving numbers isn't really a big deal, at least for me. I even like the only phone number required than other ways of doing verifications.

At some sites, after you gave the phone number, you must passed another level of verification which is way more private.

And if the site you are referring is quite reputable, why worries too much. Yes numbers can be traced but I doubt someone will put an effort to traced thousands of numbers just for their sh*t intention.

It's the first thing that I'm looking for in picking an exchange. It could provide us with an assurance that our accounts would only work through our own access.
I don't doubt about it because they're just requiring a code to protect our accounts and the only way to receive those codes is through our mobile numbers and that's a part of the process.

If you have reason to actually remain anonymous then yeah definitely avoid registering your phone, (actual email) etc. where are you registering? what type of sites?
since it's bitcoin-related, you likely can find the same without that need!