Phone validation/verification:

Phone validation is the process of verifying the accuracy and usability of a phone number. It involves checking whether the number exists, is active, and can receive calls or texts. 

What does phone validation do?

• Format check: Ensures the number follows the correct format for the specified country or region. This includes verifying the length, presence of country code, and absence of special characters.
• Checks existence: Confirms the phone number is associated with a real phone line and not a typo or made-up number. This is often done by comparing it to databases of known valid numbers.
• Type verification: Identifies the type of phone line, such as mobile, landline, or toll-free.
• Reachability check: Attempts to contact the phone number through a call or text message to see if it is currently active and able to receive communication.
  
  

Why is phone validation important?

There are several reasons why phone validation is important for businesses and organizations:

• Improves communication: By ensuring phone numbers are valid and reachable, you can avoid wasted calls, texts, and other communication attempts, which saves time and money.
• Reduces fraud: Phone validation can help identify and prevent fraudulent activity, such as fake accounts or spam calls, meaning your communications only go to real customers.
• Enhances data quality: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date phone numbers in your databases improves data quality and enables better analysis and decision-making.
• Boosts customer satisfaction: When you can successfully reach customers by phone, it leads to a more positive experience and builds trust. The result? Happy customers who are likely to come back, and maybe even tell others about the great experience they had.

Learn more about why phone validation is a critical part of handling customer data.  

How is phone validation done? Phone Validation Process

There are several methods for phone validation, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Syntax check: This is a basic check to ensure the number follows the correct format.
• Database lookup: The number is compared against databases of known valid numbers.
• Call attempt: A test call is made to the number to see if it rings or goes to voicemail.
• Text message: A test text message is sent to the number to see if it is delivered.
• Carrier lookup: Services from phone carriers can provide more detailed information about the number, such as its type and location.
  
  

The best method for phone validation will depend on your specific needs and budget, but Loqate's phone validation is the most comprehensive, going beyond number length to identify country location, carrier and apply proper syntax, all in a simple type-ahead phone validation process. Learn how Loqate can simplify and automate your phone validation at the push of a button with Phone Verify.