Quick Answer
No, you cannot create a new Facebook account using the same phone number as an existing account. Facebook requires each account to have a unique phone number for verification purposes. If you try to create a new account with a phone number already associated with another account, Facebook will detect this and not allow the new account to be created.
Explanation
When you create a new Facebook account, one of the steps requires you to enter a phone number that you can access. Facebook sends a code to this number via text message or phone call which you must then enter in the signup process to verify you have access to that phone number.
The reason Facebook requires a unique phone number for each account is to prevent duplicate or fake accounts being created. A single phone number can only be associated with one Facebook account at a time. This helps ensure each account is tied to a real identity and person.
So if you try entering a phone number that is already tied to your existing Facebook account, Facebook will detect this and prevent creation of the new account as a duplicate. You will get an error message stating that the phone number is already associated with another account.
Examples of error messages you may see:
- “This phone number is already associated with another account. You can change the number associated with your account in your account settings.”
- “That phone number is already connected to an account. You can either connect a different number or request a review of your account.”
- “This phone number isn’t available. It looks like it’s already connected to an account.”
These error messages make it clear you cannot use the same phone number for multiple Facebook accounts. Facebook blocks this action to protect account security and prevent duplicate accounts using the same credentials.
Solutions
So what can you do if you want to create a new Facebook account but already used your phone number for your existing profile? Here are a few options:
Use a Different Phone Number
The simplest solution is to use a different phone number that is not already associated with a Facebook account. This could be:
– A mobile phone number belonging to another family member or friend that you have access to.
– A landline phone number at your home or office.
– A VoIP number from a service like Google Voice.
As long as the number is not already tied to a Facebook account, you can use it to verify your new account. Just be sure you have access to that number to retrieve the verification code.
Remove the Phone Number from Your Existing Account
If you no longer want your phone number on your current Facebook account, you can remove it:
1. Go to your Facebook profile and click on the down arrow in the top right.
2. Select Settings & Privacy > Settings.
3. Click Mobile in the left sidebar.
4. Remove your phone number.
Once removed from your existing account, you can add that number to your new account. However, be aware that removing your phone number from your current account may affect certain features like password recovery.
Request a Review of Your New Account
When Facebook blocks creation of a new account due to an existing phone number, you may see an option to “request a review”. This means asking Facebook support to review your situation and new account for approval.
To do this:
1. Attempt to create the new account but enter the existing phone number when prompted.
2. When you get the error that the number is already in use, click the link to request a review.
3. Choose an option that best represents your situation.
4. Facebook will review your request and new account for approval.
If approved, your new account can be created even with the duplicate phone number. But there is no guarantee Facebook will grant the request, as reuse of credentials goes against their policies.
Creating Multiple Facebook Accounts
In general, Facebook does not allow users to maintain multiple accounts. Their terms of service state that each person should only have one personal profile. However, there are certain circumstances where you can legally have more than one Facebook account, such as:
– Managing a business page separate from your personal profile.
– Maintaining an artist/stage name profile that keeps your personal identity private.
– Having an account specific to gaming, pets or other interests.
As long as these accounts represent distinct identities and purposes, and you do not mislead people, it is allowed by Facebook’s policies.
The key is that each account must be registered with a unique phone number and credentials. You cannot simply create duplicate accounts with the same number or email address – even if the accounts themselves are legitimate.
Tips for Multiple Facebook Accounts
If you need more than one Facebook account for valid reasons, here are some tips:
– Use different email addresses for each account. Do not reuse the same address.
– Register each account with a unique phone number you can access.
– Avoid interacting between the accounts (liking, commenting on your other profiles).
– Clearly represent yourself and your purpose truthfully in each account profile.
– Add a profile photo clearly showing your identity or business purpose.
– Build out each account separately with distinct content and friends/followers.
Having multiple accounts is acceptable if kept separate with no duplication across accounts. But reusing credentials like an existing phone number is prohibited.
Risks of Duplicate Accounts
While Facebook does allow certain scenarios for multiple accounts, there are risks associated with duplicate or fake accounts:
- Account suspension or bans – Facebook will disable accounts that violate policies, including duplicates using the same phone number or email.
- Losing access to both accounts – If you reuse login information and Facebook disables one account due to duplicates, you may lose access to both.
- Removal of business assets – Pages, ad accounts, commerce shops tied to disabled accounts due to duplication may be removed.
- Account hacks/security issues – Reusing the same credentials on multiple accounts increases vulnerability if those credentials are compromised.
- Facebook ad policy violations – Having multiple ad accounts for your business could violate Facebook’s advertising policies.
It’s best to avoid duplicates by creating each account properly with unique information to represent your real identity or business. This helps keep your accounts and assets secure while staying compliant with Facebook’s rules.
Conclusion
You cannot create a new Facebook account using the same phone number as an existing account. Facebook specifically prohibits this as part of their duplicate and fake account prevention measures. To sign up for a new account, you will need access to a phone number not already associated with a Facebook profile, or request a review of your situation for approval in special cases. While there are some valid reasons for having multiple Facebook accounts, it is against their policies to reuse credentials like a phone number across accounts, so separate sign up information is required for each one you create.