It is safe to say that just about everyone has a phone these days. Every one of your customers is likely using their smartphone to access your app or platform. So, it is no surprise that the smartest companies are leveraging this communication necessity to streamline their businesses.
If you’ve ever received a text confirmation when you order a product, or if you receive an update on the status of your dealings with any company — whether online or in person — it is likely that they are using a phone number API of some sort to make the magic happen. But when a user gives their phone number to a business, who is to say that they are a genuine customer with a valid phone number?
In the digital world, validating phone numbers is no longer an option — it’s a necessity. Phone number validation APIs offer an efficient and reliable way to verify the authenticity and validity of your users’ phone numbers, giving your business and developers an extra layer of security. In this guide, we’ll explore how these APIs work, and break down some of the best options for you to consider.
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Why You Need a Phone Number Validation API
Phone number validation APIs are specialized tools that serve an essential role in the modern digital ecosystem. In short, they are designed to verify the authenticity and format of phone numbers. Here are a handful of reasons you might be looking into one:
- You want to improve customer data quality.
- You’re looking to reduce bounce rates on SMS marketing campaigns.
- Overall enhancement of your customer experience by reducing typos and incorrect number entries.
- Preventing fraud by ensuring users who are interacting with your app are genuine.
Imagine you’re managing a customer relationship management (CRM) system with a global clientele. Making sure that the contact details you are given are accurate is crucial for maintaining your customer relationships. You don’t want to waste time and resources on dead or invalid phone numbers.
A phone number verification API comes into play here, validating numbers in both local and international formats. This step ensures that the numbers conform to country-specific standards, where phone formats may differ from other regions. Take for instance, if your business is in the United States, but you have clients in Canada.
The importance of these APIs is twofold: they help identify invalid phone numbers, prevent communication mishaps, and they ensure that valid numbers are in a standardized format that can be used reliably in automated systems. If you are trying to automate a particular process — such as when you’re developing an app that integrates SMS, that’s when phone validation APIs really come in handy.
Plus, let’s not forget that users with disabilities benefit massively from phone number verification APIs. How? You’re making your app more accessible by offering the ability to receive calls or voice mails instead of texts or emails whenever your users need to verify their details.
How Phone Number Validation APIs Work
Think of phone number validation APIs as a team of digital Sherlock Holmes — they scrutinize phone numbers and check against a host of parameters such as number format, country codes, carrier status, and whether the line is currently active.
A sophisticated phone number verification API can offer insights beyond mere number validity. It can detect the number type—be it mobile, landline, or VoIP—and identify the phone carriers associated with the numbers. This information is particularly beneficial for tailoring communication strategies and understanding the telecommunications landscape.
A good thing to know is that many providers of these APIs often extend their services to include other forms of validation, such as email verification and IP address checks. So, if you’re looking to streamline your operations, it is best to look into something with a comprehensive approach so that all of your customer data points can be verified through a single service endpoint.
For developers working with platforms like Node.js, integrating a phone number verification API is a straightforward process. Use your API key, and you can authenticate requests to the API endpoint, giving your application the ability to quickly check a global phone number against the provider’s database.
In the context of a Lookup API, these validation services can often be accessed through a simple endpoint call, where you pass the phone number and your API key. The API then returns information on the number’s validity, format, line type detection, and carrier information.
So, now you know what they are and how they work. What are the best phone number verification APIs out there? Let’s look at the top five.
Best Phone Number Validation APIs
| API | Key Features | Pricing | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NumVerify | Location, carrier, line type data; Global coverage (232 countries); RESTful API | Free (1000 requests); Starts at $14.99/month (5000 requests) | Global coverage; Detailed data; Easy integration | Only phone number validation; Dated dashboard |
| Abstract | Phone, email, IP address validation; Real-time verification; Worldwide coverage | Free (250 requests); Starts at $17/month (30,000 API calls) | Versatile (multiple validations); Real-time verification; Global coverage | Complex integration; Potentially higher costs |
| Numlookup | Simple phone number validation; Worldwide coverage; Quick lookup | Free; Limited to single phone number lookups | Simple and free; Quick single number lookups | Limited features; Not scalable |
| Neutrino | Data validation, threat intelligence; Email verification, threat analysis; Pay-as-you-go pricing | Tiered pricing: $10, $50, $250/month; Depends on request volume | Broad utility; Strong security tools; Flexible pricing | Steep learning curve; No free tier |
| Intelius | Reverse phone lookup; Line type, carrier, location; Comprehensive search results | Free basic lookup; $0.95 for 6-day trial; $34.95/month after trial | Rich data insights; Free initial lookup; Confidential searches | High post-trial fees; Subscription management needed |
1. NumVerify
- Provides detailed data about phone numbers, including location, carrier, and even the line type.
- Offers global coverage, supporting 232 countries.
- Easy integration with RESTful API.
NumVerify API is our top pick for a robust, global phone number validation service that checks all of the boxes. It is designed to provide comprehensive information about phone numbers, and its functionality is streamlined but effective, focusing on delivering accurate geolocation, carrier, and line type data.
While the dashboard is basic — no frills to be found here — it gives you everything you need to get started. The documentation is thorough and relatively easy to follow.
The integration process of the NumVerify API is straightforward, thanks to its RESTful design. This makes it an attractive option for developers, regardless of their level of expertise. REST, which stands for Representational State Transfer, is a type of web service that allows for easy communication between computers on the internet.
To get started, you first need to create an account on the Numverify website and obtain an API access key. This key is essential for authenticating your API requests.
Once you have your API access key, you can make HTTP GET requests to the Numverify API endpoint. The base URL for the endpoint is http://apilayer.net/api/validate. In your request, you’ll need to include the phone number you want to validate along with your API access key. Additionally, you can include optional parameters such as the country code or request format for more refined searches.
You can check out their documentation to learn more about this process.
As for pricing, you can try out NumVerify for free, with up to 1000 requests. If you expect to use that allotment up quickly, the paid plans start at around $14.99 per month, giving you up to 5000 requests.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Global coverage, so it is perfect for businesses operating in different countries
- The detailed data is great for companies who need more granular information
- Easy to integrate — perfect if you’re not a skilled developer
Cons:
- Phone number validation only — no additional services such as email or IP validation.
- The dashboard looks a little dated
2. Abstract
- Provides phone, email, and IP address validation services.
- Offers real-time verification to enhance data accuracy.
- Supports a global audience with worldwide coverage.
Abstract API is a one-stop shop for user verification and data validation needs. Besides basic phone number validation, Abstract also offers a suite of features, including email and IP address validation. So, if you prefer having one app to handle as much of your work as possible, your business can use a single API to fulfill multiple data validation requirements, streamlining the process and reducing the need for multiple integrations.
The real-time verification feature of Abstract API sets it apart from some other services. This feature ensures that the data you’re validating is accurate at the exact moment of verification, enhancing the overall data quality and reliability.
Setting up the API is super simple — you don’t need to be a seasoned software engineer. The documentation is thorough and easy to understand.
You first obtain a unique API key from Abstract API. Then, make a GET request to the API endpoint, including your API key and the phone number you wish to validate as query parameters. The API returns a JSON response with details like the validity of the number, its format (local and international), country information, location, type (mobile, landline, etc.), and the carrier. It doesn’t get much more simple than this — so we really have to give points to Abstract for making things as straightforward as possible.
We’re not alone in praising Abstract, either — most users who tried it stand by it in their reviews. Just check out some of the things people are saying about it.
As for pricing, it is free for the first 250 requests. This is more than enough to test it out. When you’re ready to upgrade, the lowest plan starts at $17 per month, and you get up to 30,000 API calls at that rate. So, this won’t eat into your budget much.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly versatile — Abstract API provides phone, email, and IP address validation, making it a versatile tool for data validation.
- Real-time verification for high data accuracy and reliability.
- Global coverage, so it is suitable for businesses with international operations.
Cons:
- The wide range of features might make Abstract API more complex to integrate and use compared to more specialized APIs.
- Depending on the pricing structure and your usage, the cost can potentially be higher than using a single-purpose API.
3. Numlookup
- Offers a simple phone number validation process.
- Provides worldwide coverage for global phone numbers.
- Good for when you need a quick lookup.
Numlookup API is one of the more simple solutions. Its primary focus is phone number lookup, and it does this task efficiently and effectively. Numlookup doesn’t include additional features such as email or IP address validation, but this singular focus makes it a reliable tool for when you just need some quick information on a single phone number.
When you visit the dashboard, you can input a phone number and Numlookup will generate a quick report. This will contain information such as phone carrier, whether the number is still active, and even the name and social media accounts of its holder.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Super simple to use, no download or subscription required
- Free to use with no hidden fees, so it is ideal for the budget-minded
- You can get a lot of information about a user based on their phone number
Cons:
- Limited features — does not offer additional validation services like email or IP validation.
- Not good for businesses who need something scalable, since you can only look up one phone number at a time.
4. Neutrino
- Offers multiple utility APIs, including data validation and threat intelligence.
- Provides advanced security tools like email verification and threat analysis.
- Features a simple pay-as-you-go pricing model.
Neutrino API serves as a multifaceted toolkit for developers, offering an array of utility APIs that go beyond mere data validation. This suite of APIs includes services for analyzing and scrubbing user-inputted data, protecting against malicious threats, and automating processes.
Neutrino focuses on giving you everything you need under one roof, with email verification and advanced threat analysis tools that help you safeguard your business operations and maintain data integrity.
The versatility of Neutrino API is matched by its user-friendly pricing structure. The pay-as-you-go model allows you to scale your use of the service according to their needs without committing to a hefty subscription fee. There are three tiers: tier 1 at $10 per month, tier 2 at $50, and tier 3 at $250, with the primary difference being the number of requests you’re allowed per month.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Broad utility with a wide range of services, making it a versatile choice for various needs.
- Strong security tools, it offers a layer of protection for businesses worried about data integrity and threat prevention.
- Flexible pricing depending on your requests.
Cons
- The wide array of tools can increase the learning curve for developers and businesses to fully utilize the API.
- Potential for higher costs and no free tier available.
5. Intelius
- Basic reverse phone lookup is free, providing line type, carrier, and location information.
- Offers a 6-day trial for an in-depth search at $0.95, with automatic membership enrollment after the trial.
- Comprehensive search results can include the owner’s name, address, and possible social media profiles.
Intelius is another basic solution for those seeking a simple phone verification app. It might not be the best if you want something scalable — it is most similar to Numlookup — a basic solution for finding out some background information on a specific phone number.
But it is still powerful at what it does. Comprehensive search results can include the owner’s name, address, and possible social media profiles.
Intelius presents itself as an information-rich resource for those seeking more than just the name behind a phone number. It positions itself as a tool for piecing together a fuller picture of the individual associated with a phone number, providing insights that extend into social media accounts and other public records.
The initial search is free and confidential, ensuring that the person at the other end of the line remains unaware of the inquiry. While the platform does offer a trial period for users to experience the full suite of services at a minimal cost, you must be cognizant of the automatic subscription renewal, which kicks in after the trial period. The cost of continued service is $34.95 every 30 days, reinforcing the importance of mindful membership management.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Access to a wide array of data points, from basic contact information to public records.
- The free initial lookup provides enough information to confirm the line type and general location.
- Secure searches that maintain confidentiality and privacy — great news if you are privacy-focused.
Cons:
- Post-trial subscription fees are substantial and recur monthly.
- Users must be diligent in canceling the trial if they do not wish to incur additional charges.
- The service is not covered by the FCRA, which limits its use for certain screening purposes.
Advantages of Using PhoneNumber Validation in Different Industries
Phone number validation APIs have become an integral component across various industries. You have likely interacted with one if you have received a text from a company to update you on the status of an online purchase or to verify your identity. Let’s look at a few industries where phone verification APIs are particularly helpful.
E-commerce and Retail
In the world of e-commerce and retail, the functionality of a phone number validation API is front and center. For instance, by confirming the authenticity of a cell phone or toll-free number, retailers can mitigate fraudulent activities often associated with incorrect or fake contact details.
You can think of this validation as a form of authentication, ensuring that the person making the purchase is the legitimate cardholder — safeguarding against credit card fraud.
Accurate phone data is also vital for logistics. E-commerce businesses rely on confirmed phone numbers to update customers about delivery statuses, which reduces the risk of failed deliveries due to incorrect contact information. Think about the last time you got a text message telling you that your Amazon delivery is moments away.
Financial Services
In financial services, the stakes are high when it comes to security and trust. So, it is no surprise that a phone number validation API serves a critical role in the authentication process. When clients register or perform transactions, an API call to validate an international phone number can serve as an additional security layer alongside traditional methods like passwords and security questions.
You can see where this validation process can also be employed to enhance two-factor authentication (2FA), where a validated phone number is used to send a unique code as part of the login or transaction process, adding another barrier against unauthorized access. Think about the last time you logged into your online banking portal — if you have a 2FA setup, you would have received a text to confirm that it is you accessing the account.
Healthcare
Healthcare providers are increasingly adopting digital solutions to manage patient communications effectively. A phone number validation API ensures that contact details for patients are current and correct. Your doctor won’t just text you from their personal cell — instead, precision accuracy is essential for sending out appointment reminders, medication dosages, or urgent health notifications.
For healthcare, the use of a REST API for phone number validation is particularly beneficial because of the ease with which it can integrate with existing healthcare management software, ensuring that communication with patients remains uninterrupted and reliable. You definitely don’t want your doctor’s texts going to the spam folder.
Telecommunications
Telecommunications companies find a direct use for phone number validation APIs. These providers can leverage the API’s functionality to authenticate users upon sign-up, and reduce the likelihood of fraudulent accounts.
VoIP services, which have become a mainstay in both personal and business communication, also benefit from validation services to ensure that numbers are properly formatted and assigned to real users.
Plus, validating phone numbers helps telecommunications companies in classifying numbers, such as differentiating between a mobile number and VoIP, and identifying country_name information. This information can be used to tailor services and offers or to comply with regional regulations.
There are plenty of other industries where you’ll find value in a phone number verification API, but we’ll leave it at that. Let’s answer some of the most common questions next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a phone number validation API and why is it important?
A phone number validation API is a tool that checks and verifies the authenticity of a phone number. It’s great to have around if you are looking to improve data quality, reduce fraudulent activities, and enhance the user experience around your app.
How do phone number validation APIs enhance security?
Phone number validation APIs can enhance security by acting as an additional layer of user verification, helping prevent fraudulent activities and ensuring only valid users access your system. When a new user signs up to your app, you can send an automated text to verify that they are genuine, and not just a bot.
Can phone number validation APIs be integrated with any system?
Most phone number validation APIs are designed to be easily integrated with various systems, from mobile applications to web platforms. You might need to have a low level of programming knowledge to integrate certain APIs, but almost every provider out there offers sufficient documentation to get started.
What are the costs associated with using a phone number validation API?
The cost varies by provider and often depends on the number of requests or validations you need. Some providers offer free tiers or trials, while others charge based on usage. If you are just testing out a service, look for something that gives a certain number of requests or API calls before committing to a paid plan.
Tyler Von Harz is a developer and prolific writer with a passion for technology. He has a knack for simplifying complex coding topics, and as an author, he contributes to various tech platforms, combining his technical expertise and writing skills to produce impactful content. His work is driven by an insatiable curiosity and a commitment to a deeper understanding of technology.
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