Surfshark Launches 'Alternative Phone Number' Feature: A Game Changer for Phone Privacy Protection

Your phone number is one of the most personal pieces of data you have — and it’s constantly at risk. From data breaches to spam calls, sharing your number opens you up to unwanted marketing, scams, and security threats. With hackers and marketers targeting phone numbers more than ever, keeping yours private is key to protecting your personal information.

Enter Surfshark’s new "Alternative Number" feature, designed to help you take back control of your privacy. In this blog, we’ll break down how this new feature works, why it’s a game-changer for phone privacy, and how you can use it to keep your personal info safe.

Why Phone Privacy Matters More Than Ever

Phone numbers aren’t just for calling people — they’re keys to your personal information. With more of our lives tied to smartphones and apps, your number can reveal more about you than you might realize.

Here’s why safeguarding your phone privacy is a must:

• Data Breaches Are On the Rise: Large-scale breaches often expose phone numbers, making it easier for cybercriminals to access your accounts, or launch phishing attacks.
• Targeted Marketing Efforts: Your number is often sold or shared with third-party companies, which can use it to send targeted ads, promotions, or even sell your information to others.
• Your Phone is Your Digital Identity: Your phone number is tied to countless accounts, from social media profiles to banking apps. If it’s compromised, your entire digital identity is at risk.

How Surfshark’s ‘Alternative Number’ Feature Works

Surfshark’s Alternative Number feature makes it easy to keep your personal phone number private while still handling business calls, personal use, and online verifications. Instead of sharing your primary phone number, you can generate an alternate phone number.

Here’s how it works:

• Generate an Alternate Phone Number – Using Surfshark’s alternate phone number app, you can quickly create a virtual phone number that works just like a primary phone number but without exposing your real one.
• Use It for Calls and Texts – Your alternate number can be used for incoming calls, text messages, and verifications while keeping your personal number private. This is ideal for personal and business use, whether you need a second phone number for work or a free phone number for online accounts.
• Manage and Control Your Numbers – If you start receiving unwanted calls, you can delete, block, or replace your alternate phone number with just a few taps. This ensures you have full control over your personal calls and business communications.
• Additional Features for Flexibility – Surfshark’s alternate phone number services include options for call forwarding, voicemail messages, and even international calling, making it a great solution for small businesses and personal use alike.

Top Reasons to Use an Alternative Phone Number for Personal and Business Communications

Surfshark's "Alternative Number" feature offers a practical solution for maintaining privacy and control over your communications. Here are the top reasons to consider using this service:​

1. Reduced Exposure to Spam

With the rise of spam, robocalls, and data leaks, keeping your primary phone number private is crucial. Surfshark’s alternate phone number provider shields your mobile number from telemarketers and data brokers, significantly reducing missed calls from unknown numbers.

2. Enhanced Privacy

Using an alternative phone number provider helps you protect your personal identity. Whether you're signing up for a new service or handling professional calls, Surfshark ensures your primary number remains confidential.

3. Advanced Features for Better Communication

Beyond just phone calls, Surfshark’s virtual phone system offers call routing, call tracking, and voicemail transcription, making it a solid alternative to services like Google Voice. Plus, features like call recording, call analytics, and unlimited text messaging help ensure smooth communication.

4. User-Friendly and Reliable Support

Surfshark provides a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to manage contacts, set business hours, and customize your numbers. Plus, their reliable customer support ensures you get help when you need it.

Choosing the Right Alternate Phone Number Provider

Who Should Use Surfshark’s Alternative Number Feature?

Online Shoppers: E-commerce sites, loyalty programs, and online subscriptions often require a local number for verification. Unfortunately, sharing your real number can lead to spam, marketing calls, or even data leaks.

Frequent App Users: Using an alternate mobile number ensures that your personal life stays private while reducing your risk of spam or breaches. This is especially helpful for dating apps or platforms that require frequent logins.

Business Owners & Entrepreneurs: With Surfshark, you can separate personal and business calls without needing multiple devices. Features like team messaging, high-quality calls, and internet protocol-based connections ensure professionalism and efficiency.

Anyone Concerned About Privacy & Security: Whether you want to avoid telemarketers or keep your personal life separate, using an alternative number adds a layer of security.

Getting Started with Surfshark’s Alternative Number Feature

Key Factors to Access Surfshark’s Alternative Number

To use this feature, you’ll need an active Surfshark VPN subscription. The Alternative Number is a paid add-on, meaning it isn’t included in the standard plan. Surfshark allows you to offer alternative phone numbers for private calls, online verifications, and secure messaging.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Alternative Number

1. Open the Surfshark App – Log in and navigate to the Alternative ID section in the dashboard.
2. Select "Change Number" – Tap on the option to update your alternate mobile number.
3. Acknowledge the Change – Changing your number will permanently delete your current one, meaning you will no longer be able to receive calls or messages on it.
4. Confirm the Change – Tick the acknowledgment box in the pop-up window and press Confirm.
5. Wait for 30 Days – Once you change your number, you won’t be able to modify it again for another 30 days.

Comparing Surfshark to Other Privacy Tools

While Surfshark’s Alternative Number feature offers a secure way to keep your primary phone number private, how does it stack up against other options? Here’s a quick comparison of Surfshark vs. other privacy-focused services.

1. Surfshark vs. Google Voice

Google Voice provides a local number for business contacts and non-personal communication, but it lacks full privacy protection. While it offers call forwarding and voicemail transcription, your data is still tied to Google’s ecosystem, which may not be ideal for those prioritizing anonymity. Surfshark, on the other hand, provides an alternate phone number without linking it to a larger data-collection network.

2. Surfshark vs. Burner Apps (Hushed, Burner, etc.)

Apps like Burner and Hushed allow users to generate multiple phone numbers for private calls and texts. However, they often come with pay-per-use pricing or require ongoing subscriptions. Surfshark’s Alternative Number feature is a seamless add-on to its VPN service, giving you privacy benefits across both internet browsing and call protection.

Surfshark vs. VoIP-Based Virtual Phone Numbers

VoIP services like TextNow and Sideline function as virtual phone systems, allowing users to make calls via internet protocol. While they provide free calling, they typically require an active internet connection. Surfshark’s Alternative Number works with standard cell phone numbers, meaning you can receive calls and texts without being tied to a Wi-Fi network.

4. Surfshark vs. Privacy-Focused Carriers (MySudo, Silent Link, etc.)

Some privacy-focused carriers offer alternate mobile numbers with enhanced encryption for high-quality calls. However, these services are often costly and require a full carrier switch. Surfshark allows you to offer alternative phone numbers without changing your provider, making it a more convenient and budget-friendly choice.

Wrapping Up: Take Control of Your Phone Privacy

Surfshark’s Alternative Number feature makes it easier to keep your personal number private without sacrificing convenience.This tool gives you more control over your personal and business communications. Unlike traditional cell phone numbers, Surfshark lets you create and manage alternate phone numbers without the hassle of getting a second SIM card. With added privacy, high-quality calls, and a user-friendly interface, it’s a smart solution for anyone looking to protect their phone number in today’s digital world.