The Issue with YouTube Channel Verification by Phone Number in Certain Countries

The phone number verification process on YouTube is primarily for security purposes and to ensure the safety of user accounts. This verification is crucial in preventing unauthorized access and unusual activity. However, users from certain countries may face difficulties or complete rejection due to specific monetary policies or other restrictions.

Monetary Policies and YouTube's Revenue Model

In countries with strict monetary policies, YouTube's revenue model can be problematic. For instance, Pakistan imposes Sharia-based banking laws that restrict the use of interest-based transactions. YouTube relies on interest generated by holding payments in escrow for a specified period. This model clashes with the local financial regulations, leading to rejection of verification for phone numbers based on the same principles.

Geographical and Verification Limitations

There are countries where YouTube or Google outright rejects the use of phone numbers for verification. Additionally, there are rules against reusing the same phone number across multiple YouTube accounts. This policy is aimed at preventing fraud and maintaining account security. Users who encounter these issues can try registering a new phone number with a different service provider to see if that resolves the problem. Despite this, success is not guaranteed and depends on the specific country and local regulations.

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

For users who are trying to verify their YouTube channels but facing issues, here are some additional steps to take:

Create a Gmail Account: Starting by creating a Gmail account can sometimes provide a workaround for the phone number verification process. Use the same login credentials when linking your Gmail account to YouTube to avoid any discrepancies.

Use Non-VOIP Numbers: If you are unable to use the same phone number, consider using a non-VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number. These numbers are more likely to be accepted for verification.

Addressing Specific Issues: If the problem lies with carrier restrictions, verification delays, or privacy concerns, consider the specific issues and find a suitable solution. For example, if verification is delayed, try resending the SMS or checking for possible routing issues.

Common Challenges with Phone Number Verification

Several challenges can arise during the phone number verification process, including:

Limited Phone Number Availability: Users may not have access to a valid phone number, especially if they are traveling or living in remote areas.

Carrier Restrictions: Some mobile carriers may block verification texts or calls, leading to incomplete or failed verification processes.

Privacy Concerns: Users may hesitate to share their phone numbers due to privacy concerns, especially if they are unsure about the data practices of third-party services.

Verification Delays: SMS or calls may be delayed or not received at all, leading to unsuccessful verification attempts.

Multiple Accounts: Users may face limitations on verifying multiple accounts with the same phone number, further complicating the process.

Understanding and addressing these challenges can help in navigating the verification process more effectively and successfully.