Why Steam Requires Phone Verification

Steam uses phone verification for Steam Guard Mobile Authenticator — the two-factor authentication system that protects your account and enables trading on the Steam marketplace. Without phone verification, your account has trading restrictions and reduced security.

Gamers who don't want to link their personal SIM to Steam, users in countries where Steam has limited phone support, and those managing multiple Steam accounts all benefit from a temp number — a real, working number that activates Steam Guard without exposing your personal SIM.

What Is a Temp Number (Virtual Phone Number)?

A temp number is a real phone number hosted online that receives SMS codes. Two types are available on CodesSender:

SMS Activation — one-time temp number for initial Steam Guard setup.
Phone Rental (7–30 days) — a real number you keep for ongoing authenticator access.

What You Need Before Starting

A CodesSender account
A small balance to purchase a temp number
Steam open in your browser or app

Step-by-Step: How to Verify Steam Without Your Personal Number

Step 1 — Open Steam and navigate to phone verification

Open Steam client or go to store.steampowered.com. Go to Account Details → Add Phone Number. When Steam asks for a number, stop here.

Step 2 — Open CodesSender Activation page

Open codessender.com/activation in a new tab.

Step 3 — Select Steam as the service

Search for "Steam" and select it, or visit the Steam activation page. Temp numbers from United States and United Kingdom work well.

Step 4 — Purchase and copy your number

Activate the temp number and copy it.

Step 5 — Enter the number into Steam

Paste your temp number with the correct country code and click Send Code.

Step 6 — Get your code

Click "Get SMS" in CodesSender. Enter the code into Steam to complete verification.

Best Countries for Steam Verification

United States — best acceptance
United Kingdom — reliable
Germany — good option
Poland — cost-effective
Sweden — works well

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to use a temp number for Steam?

Yes. Ensure your use complies with Steam's Terms of Service.

Is a temp number a real number Steam Guard accepts?

Yes. Temp numbers are real, functional numbers that receive SMS. Steam Guard activates and works exactly the same as with any standard mobile number.

Do I need Phone Rental for Steam Guard?

If you want to keep Steam Guard active long-term, Phone Rental is recommended so the real number remains active for future authenticator codes.

Conclusion

Verifying Steam without your personal number takes minutes with a temp number from CodesSender.

Get your Steam temp number now and complete verification in under 5 minutes.