iPhone shows 'Cannot verify phone number' error when updating phone number

Hi everyone, I could use some help with a situation: I bought a SIM card in Armenia. I’m trying to update the phone number in my iPhone settings to the Armenian one, but it’s not working. I get an error message: "Cannot verify phone number – This phone number is already being used with another account." What should I do in this case? Should I change the number, or is there a better way to handle this?

Posted on Oct 24, 2026 6:00 AM

1 reply

WheelieNick

Level 9 (74,110 points)

Oct 24, 2026 8:02 AM in response to Mirrorr1

Hi there

Please try this

Option 1: Get a Different SIM Card or Number

You do not need to change your entire Apple ID, but you should get a different SIM card or phone numberfrom your Armenian carrier.

Ask your carrier for a brand-new, unassigned number that has not been previously registered to an online service or Apple ID.
Recycled pre-paid numbers frequently trigger this security block.

Option 2: Manage Your Account via the Web (Alternative)

If you want to check your account status or attempt a web-based update:

Go to the official Apple Account Management Page and log in.
Try adding the phone number directly through your profile settings rather than straight from the iOS device interface.
Ensure any active VPNs or proxy services on your phone are turned off, as Apple frequently blocks verification requests coming from virtual or masked networks.