What is a Trap Phone? 

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If you’ve come across the phrase “trap phone” and wondered what it could mean, you’re likely not alone. It might sound overly technical or even mysterious but, in reality, it’s just a colloquial cousin of a “burner phone.” 

A temporary or disposable phone might be commonly associated with illicit activities (“trap” stems from the affiliation with potential crime). However the concept of having a burner or trap phone also includes plenty of practical and legal applications.

What Exactly is a Trap Phone?

In essence, a trap phone is a temporary, and likely prepaid phone that is not attached to a long-term contract. Often operating under the radar, trap phones allow users to make and receive calls and texts, and use data without needing to link the number to their personal contact information.  

The etymology of the phrasing “trap phone” seems to have originated in hip-hop culture with allusion to drug dealing or similar underground activities. 

How People use Trap Phones (Legally and Otherwise) 

First up, the not-so-legal uses (allegedly). The classic association with trap phones involves criminal enterprises due to the fact that they can be easily (relatively) discarded to avoid tracing. Other potentially unsavoury activities for a trap phone might include gambling or similar anonymous transactions to which the user does not want their identity tied. 

Despite the terminology of trap phones having a dubious reputation, remember that the concept is not inherently criminal. In fact, temporary phones are becoming increasingly popular for a number of legitimate purposes. 

  • Privacy

When selling items online, signing up for apps, snagging discounts, or even dating, people are turning to disposable phones to protect their personal data. 

  • Temporary Gigs or Freelancing

Contract workers or anyone in the gig economy might choose to use a temporary number to keep their professional communications separate and organized away from their primary correspondences. 

  • Travel

Anyone with wanderlust visiting foreign countries can consider a prepaid phone or eSIM to function as a trap phone of sorts, to help them avoid exorbitant roaming charges.  

  • Short Term Commitments

Planning an event like a reunion or community activity? A temporary phone that doesn’t require a long-term line, is easy and worry-free.  

How to Get a Temporary Number

If you’re intrigued by the idea of a trap phone then you need to know that there’s no need to invest in a secondary phone to reap the benefits of having a temporary phone number. Instead, Hushed offers virtual online numbers, which are perfect for anyone who needs the flexibility of a disposable phone number without the hassle.  

Hushed Numbers are:

  • Easily accessible with no need for an additional physical device. Your Hushed number operates through the Hushed app on your primary phone.
  • More secure than giving out your personal contact information. Instead, use a Hushed number for private conversations, online transactions, or any one-off activities without exposing your personal details. 
  • Lower environmental impact. A Hushed number can be a greener alternative to a single-use trap phone. 
  • Less expensive. An online temporary Hushed number is much more cost-effective and cheaper than buying an entirely separate phone and plan. 

If you’re considering a trap phone, remember that Hushed is the better alternative for maintaining your privacy and flexibility for your communication needs. 

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Written by Krista

Based on beautiful Cape Breton Island, Krista Montelpare is a storyteller and content writer with a passion for community-building and communication clarity. See more at GatherAndEcho.com or follow her on Instagram @LoveLetterLifestyle where she writes love letters to her favourite foods, destinations, and thrift store finds.
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