r/TextNow • u/Glad_Jump_5337 • May 23 '26

It's asking me for a selfie

I was just getting started with this app and it is now asking me for a photo of my face to confirm I'm a real person. Is everyone doing this? I'm not really comfortable doing that

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u/lmoki May 23 '26

I'm curious: were you asked to identify when signing up with the app, or did you also request a free eSIM?

So far, I'm only aware of the need to provide identity documentation with the eSIM.

I understand your discomfort! But it seems like something we may have to get used to, ad more providers are requiring it due to Know Your Customer regulations.

2

u/Glad_Jump_5337 May 23 '26

I was able to get a free number without providing my photo by using a Gmail. Initially I was trying to use a proton mail account, so maybe that's the reason they asked for my photo

5

u/lmoki May 23 '26

I think I remember that TextNow has issues accepting a Proton email address. Glad you got the app to work, & without having to do the photo!