Why Use a Burner Phone?

In today's world, it seems like we are constantly tracked; our personal information is available to any company or advertiser who can afford it. For many, privacy is more important than ever. One tool that's gained popularity in recent years is the burner phone. In this article, learn what burner phones are and what they're used for, why people have a burner phone number, and how you can use one to protect your privacy.

What is a burner phone?

Burner phones, or disposable phones, are prepaid phones that offer more privacy than traditional smartphones. With burners, you can text and make phone calls without revealing your personal identity or any other linked information. These phones are typically flip phones or older smartphone models from brands like Nokia or LG.

The origin of the term "burner phone" is essentially what you'd expect, as it originated from the practice of "burning" or destroying the device after its use to avoid leaving a digital trail.

Benefits of burner phones

With burners, it may be difficult to look beyond the stereotypes of their association with suspicious activities. However, these devices can offer benefits to everyone. Here are just a few of the reasons why people may opt for these types of phones.

• They help with private communications. Burner cellphones allow for anonymous conversations, protecting sensitive information from others.
• They can be used temporarily. When traveling or doing one-time transactions, burner cellphones offer reliable communication without risking the exposure of personal details.
• Burner phones improve your personal safety. In situations where personal safety is a concern, burners can help prevent potential risks associated with tracking or hacking.
• They're cheaper than smartphones. For those who don’t want to pay for expensive smartphone plans or are trying to quit a social media addiction, burners provide an ideal solution. These affordable devices, also known as feature phones, come at a fraction of the cost of their high-end counterparts. Additionally, you can save more money by only paying for minutes or texts that you need instead of opting for unlimited calling and texting.
• They have an extended battery life. Burner phones offer an impressive battery life compared to modern smartphones, which die after a few hours. If you need reliable coverage for a long period of time, consider a burner.
• Burners combat spam calls. Burners provide limited exposure to spammers. Additionally, you can frequently change your phone number, minimizing the risk of your personal number being targeted.

How to use a burner phone

Using a burner cellphone involves a few simple steps.

1. Buy the phone. Obtain a prepaid mobile device from a retailer or online seller. Burners are typically relatively inexpensive and don’t require a contract. Once you have the phone, you can buy pre-paid SIM cards from places like 7-11 or CVS.
2. Activate the phone. Follow the instructions to activate the device, which usually involves activating the SIM card and adding minutes to it. Once this is done, you'll be able to operate the phone normally.
3. Use the phone. Make calls, send text messages, and use other communication features just like any regular phone. Use it for as long as you want.
4. “Burn” the phone, or dispose of it, when you're done with it. When you no longer need the burner phone, dispose of it safely to ensure the protection of your privacy. Consider recycling or physically destroying the device to minimize any potential residual data.

How to use a burner to maximize privacy

Privacy concerns drive many to use burner phones effectively. But burners aren't without their security and privacy limitations. Here's how to maximize privacy and avoid detection when using burner phones.

• Purchase them anonymously. When you buy a burner phone, use cash instead of credit cards or other payment methods to avoid linking the purchase to your identity.
• Provide little to no personal information. Avoid associating your real name, address, or other identifiable details with the burner phone.
• Avoid prolonged usage. The longer you use a burner, the higher the chances are of you being tracked or linked to your identity. Limit the duration of use for maximum privacy.
• Communicate securely. Utilize encrypted messaging apps or voice call services to safeguard your conversations even further. Note that the more features you use on the phone, like WiFi, the more your personal data will be at risk.

Burner phone apps and phone numbers

If you don't want to use physical burner phones, there are various burner apps that offer burner phone numbers for additional privacy on smartphones. These apps generate alternative virtual burner numbers that can be used for calls, texts, and even online verifications in place of your real number. Examples of popular burner phone number apps include Burner, Hushed, and TextNow.

Burner cellphone apps try to imitate the functionality and privacy features of physical burner phones on existing smartphones. Additionally, these apps usually include spam blocking and filtering features to block known spam numbers. While they offer convenience and some level of privacy, they are almost certainly not as robust or secure as dedicated burners.

In an era where privacy is a precious commodity, burner cellphones offer a temporary reprieve from constant surveillance. By understanding the benefits of burners and how to use them properly, you can take control of your personal privacy and communicate with confidence.

Frequently asked questions

Are burner phones legal?

Yes, burner phones are legal. As long as you aren't using them for illegal purposes, there's no law against using a cellphone temporarily or as a burner.

How much does it cost for a burner cellphone?

Depending on the phone you choose to purchase, they can cost anywhere between $20 to a few hundred dollars. If you just need a simple phone for calls and texts, you can invest in a less expensive model.

Do burner phones have a SIM?

Yes, burners have SIM cards. These are usually prepaid SIM cards, which makes them more secure, but burners still have SIM cards of some kind.