What Type of WhatsApp Number You Should Use to Connect with BOKBOK
Not every WhatsApp number can be used for automation. This guide explains which type of number you should use with BOKBOK, what is not allowed, and how to avoid common mistakes when connecting WhatsApp to your chatbot.
BOKBOK
Published on BOKBOK
Quick Answer: Use a Fresh, Unused Phone Number
To connect WhatsApp with BOKBOK (via the official WhatsApp API), you should use a new phone number that has never been used with WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business before. The number must be able to receive SMS or voice calls for verification and should be dedicated to your business.
✅ Good choice
- Brand new SIM/phone number that has never used WhatsApp
- Number that can receive SMS or voice calls
- Dedicated business number (not your personal daily number)
❌ Avoid using
- Your personal WhatsApp number
- A number already registered on WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business
- Numbers that cannot receive SMS/phone calls
Why You Need a Number That Is Not Already Used on WhatsApp
BOKBOK connects to WhatsApp using the official WhatsApp API. Meta requires that the phone number you connect is not already active in the regular WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business mobile apps. If the number is already in use on a phone, the API connection will fail or you will be forced to log out from the app.
By using a fresh number, you:
- Avoid conflicts between the mobile app and the API connection
- Prevent unexpected logouts or message delivery issues
- Keep your personal WhatsApp completely separate from your business automation
- Follow Meta's official policies and reduce the risk of restrictions
Exact Requirements for a WhatsApp Number with BOKBOK
Before you buy or choose a number, make sure it meets these requirements:
1. The number must be new to WhatsApp
It should not be registered with WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business on any device. Ideally, use a brand new SIM card that has never been used for WhatsApp before.
2. It must be able to receive SMS or calls
During setup, Meta will send a verification code by SMS or voice call. Make sure the SIM is active, inserted into a phone (at least during setup), and able to receive messages or calls.
3. It should be a long-term, stable number
This number will appear to your customers as your official WhatsApp Business contact. Choose a number that you plan to keep for the long term and renew regularly with your telecom operator.
4. Prefer a number that matches your market
If most of your customers are in a specific country, it's usually better to use a number from that country. This makes it easier and cheaper for customers to save and recognize your number.
5. Decide: mobile vs landline
You can technically use a mobile number or a landline (as long as it can receive voice calls for verification). In most cases, a mobile number is simpler to manage because you can also use it for SMS-based verification.
What Type of Numbers You Should NOT Use
To avoid problems, do not use the following types of numbers when connecting WhatsApp to BOKBOK:
- Your main personal WhatsApp number that you use every day
- Any number already connected to WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business on a phone
- Virtual numbers that cannot reliably receive SMS or phone calls
- Temporary or disposable numbers that may expire soon
Examples: Choosing the Right Number in Real Life
Example 1: Small local shop
You already use a personal WhatsApp number to chat with friends and family. For BOKBOK, buy a new SIM, register it under your business owner's name, and use that new number for your WhatsApp integration. Your customers will see this as the official shop number.
Example 2: Online service business
You don't currently use WhatsApp for your business. You can simply pick a fresh mobile number from your telecom provider and use it only for automated WhatsApp support via BOKBOK.
Example 3: You want to move an existing number
If you really want to use your current WhatsApp Business number, you must first delete the WhatsApp/WhatsApp Business account from your phone and then connect that number through the API. After migration, you will manage all chats through BOKBOK, not from the phone app.
Step-by-Step: Preparing a WhatsApp Number for BOKBOK
- Purchase or choose a new phone number that you will dedicate to your business.
- Insert the SIM into a phone and confirm it can receive SMS or voice calls.
- Do not register this number on WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app.
- Go to your BOKBOK dashboard and follow the WhatsApp integration steps.
- When Meta asks for verification, enter the code you receive by SMS or call.
- Once verified, keep the SIM active with your operator so the number doesn't expire.
Choose the Right Number Once and Build a Scalable WhatsApp Channel
The most important rule is simple: use a fresh, unused phone number that can receive SMS or calls and dedicate it to your business. This keeps your personal WhatsApp separate, avoids technical problems, and gives you a clean, professional presence for your customers.
With the right number connected to BOKBOK, you can start sending and receiving WhatsApp messages at scale, automate customer support, and build a powerful communication channel that works 24/7 for your business.