Onoff.app Review

Based on checking the website, Onoff.app presents itself as a service offering a second phone number through an application, aiming to eliminate the need for a second physical phone or SIM card.

While the concept of managing multiple numbers on one device is appealing for convenience, a thorough review reveals areas that could be enhanced for user trust and transparency, especially from an ethical standpoint.

Overall Review Summary:

• Purpose: Provides virtual secondary phone numbers via an app.
• Target Audience: Professionals, individuals, and businesses needing separate numbers.
• Key Features: On/Off mode, voicemail, contact synchronization, VoIP/GSM calls, call forwarding, masked number.
• Pricing: Starts at €4.92/month for independent workers/freelancers, with a premium option.
• Technology: Utilizes “Onoff Calls” for GSM network quality.
• Legitimacy: Onoff Telecom is recognized by ARCEP a French regulatory body.
• Ethical Consideration: While the service itself isn’t inherently problematic, the lack of detailed privacy practices on the homepage, especially concerning data handling for phone numbers and communications, raises questions for a user seeking complete peace of mind. The nature of virtual numbers, while convenient, also sometimes intersects with concerns around anonymity and potential misuse if not governed by clear, robust policies. For a service dealing with personal communication, greater transparency upfront regarding data privacy and user control is essential.

The idea of streamlining communication by adding multiple numbers to a single device is innovative and certainly addresses a common need for professionals or anyone wanting to segregate personal and professional life.

Onoff.app positions itself as a practical solution, boasting features like On/Off mode for privacy and integrated voicemail.

0.0 0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews) Excellent0% Very good0% Average0% Poor0% Terrible0% There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. Your review Your overall rating Select a Rating5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star Title of your review Your review Your name Your email This review is based on my own experience and is my genuine opinion. ​ Submit Review

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Onoff.app Review Latest Discussions & Reviews:

However, for a service that becomes an integral part of personal and business communication, the initial impression on the homepage could benefit from clearer, more prominent information regarding user data security, data retention policies, and how communication privacy is truly guaranteed.

Trust in digital communication platforms hinges heavily on these factors.

While the website mentions “Politique de confidentialité” Privacy Policy, its accessibility and the summary of its core tenets on the main page are less than ideal.

Best Alternatives for Ethical and Secure Communication Management:

• Proton Mail: Offers end-to-end encrypted email and calendar services.
  • Key Features: Strong encryption, zero-access architecture, self-destructing messages, VPN integration.
  • Average Price: Free tier available, paid plans starting around $4.99/month.
  • Pros: Excellent security and privacy, Swiss-based strong privacy laws, user-friendly interface.
  • Cons: Some advanced features are only in paid plans, not a direct phone number alternative.
• Signal Private Messenger: A leading encrypted messaging and calling app.
  • Key Features: End-to-end encryption for all communications messages, calls, video, open-source, no trackers.
  • Average Price: Free.
  • Pros: Top-tier privacy, secure, no data collection, trusted by privacy advocates.
  • Cons: Requires users to be on the platform, not a virtual phone number.
• Tutanota: Secure and encrypted email service.
  • Key Features: End-to-end encrypted emails, calendar, and contacts, based in Germany.
  • Average Price: Free tier available, paid plans starting around €1.20/month.
  • Pros: Strong encryption, user-friendly, good for secure communication.
  • Cons: Some features are limited in the free version, not a phone number service.
• Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex Headset: A high-quality professional headset for clear communication.
  • Key Features: Advanced noise cancellation, comfortable design, long battery life, excellent call quality.
  • Average Price: Around $250 – $350.
  • Pros: Enhances call clarity significantly, professional tool, durable.
  • Cons: Not a software solution, higher initial cost.
• Evernote: A comprehensive note-taking and organization app for managing professional information.
  • Key Features: Web clipping, document scanning, task management, cross-device sync.
  • Average Price: Free tier available, paid plans starting around $7.99/month.
  • Pros: Highly versatile for organizing professional and personal data, integrates well with other tools.
  • Cons: Can be overwhelming for new users, features might be overkill for simple needs.
• Mozilla Firefox Focus: A privacy-focused web browser.
  • Key Features: Automatic tracker blocking, ad blocking, easy erase of browsing history.
  • Pros: Enhances online privacy, fast browsing, simple interface.
  • Cons: Lacks some advanced features of full browsers, not a communication tool.
• YubiKey 5 Series: Hardware security keys for strong authentication.
  • Key Features: Multi-protocol support FIDO2, U2F, Smart Card, etc., durable, simple to use.
  • Average Price: Around $50 – $70.
  • Pros: Significantly improves account security, protects against phishing, highly reliable.
  • Cons: Requires compatible services, an additional physical item to carry.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Onoff.app Review & First Look: Is It Worth Your Trust?

Based on our initial inspection of Onoff.app’s homepage, the service primarily aims to offer a practical solution for managing multiple phone numbers without the need for additional physical devices.

This is a common pain point for professionals and individuals who want to separate their personal and professional communications.

The site clearly articulates the core value proposition: getting a second number directly through an application.

It emphasizes ease of use, eliminating the hassle of carrying multiple phones or juggling SIM cards.

The Promise of Convenience

Onoff.app highlights that its solution is suitable for various needs, whether for business, personal use, online shopping, or family communication. Chasingbulktcg.com Review

This flexibility is a strong selling point, positioning the app as a versatile tool.

• Key Benefit: Simplifies communication by centralizing multiple numbers on a single device.
• Target Audience: Professionals, freelancers, small businesses, and individuals seeking to compartmentalize their digital identity.

Initial Impressions on Transparency

While the service offers convenience, a critical look at the homepage for a service dealing with personal communication reveals a standard approach to information display.

For users who prioritize ethical and secure handling of their communications, this might prompt a deeper dive into their privacy policies, which are linked but not summarized on the main page.

• Privacy Policy Link: The “Politique de confidentialité” link is present in the footer, which is standard, but a more prominent or summarized section on the homepage could build immediate trust.
• Data Handling: Details on how Onoff.app manages call logs, message content, and contact data are not explicitly detailed on the front page, requiring users to navigate to separate legal documents.

Evaluating Onoff.app’s Features

Onoff.app boasts a suite of features designed to make managing multiple numbers seamless.

These functionalities cater to both the casual user needing a temporary number and the business professional requiring advanced call management. Car-hire-uk.com Review

Core Functionalities

The website outlines several key features that form the backbone of the Onoff.app service.

• On/Off Mode: This allows users to easily activate or deactivate their secondary number, effectively creating a “do not disturb” for specific lines without turning off their primary phone. This is particularly useful for work-life balance.
• Integrated and Personalized Voicemail: A standard feature, but the emphasis on “personalized” suggests customization options, which is a nice touch for professional use.
• Contact Synchronization: Essential for any communication app, ensuring users can access their contacts across different numbers.
• VoIP or GSM Calls: Onoff.app highlights its “Onoff Calls” technology, claiming to provide the best call quality by using GSM directly on the mobile network. This suggests an effort to overcome common VoIP quality issues.
  • VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol: Calls made over the internet, typically more cost-effective for international calls but dependent on internet connection quality.
  • GSM Global System for Mobile Communications: Calls made over traditional cellular networks, generally more reliable in terms of quality and less dependent on internet availability.
• Call Forwarding and Masked Number: These are crucial for privacy and flexibility, allowing users to control who sees their real number and where calls are directed.

Premium Features for Professionals

For a slightly higher fee, Onoff.app offers a “Premium” tier specifically tailored for business users and freelancers.

• Calling from Multiple Devices: This feature could be highly beneficial for teams or individuals who use multiple devices e.g., phone, tablet, desktop for work.
• Scheduling Availability Hours: Professionals can set specific times when their business number is active, ensuring they are only reachable during work hours. This promotes a healthier work-life balance.
• Taking Notes During Calls: A practical tool for business calls, allowing users to jot down important information without switching apps or needing external tools.
  • Productivity Impact: This integration minimizes distractions and improves efficiency during phone consultations or client calls.

Missing Features & Considerations

While the listed features are robust, some aspects might be worth considering for users seeking advanced control or specific integrations.

• Call Recording: It’s not explicitly mentioned if call recording is a feature, which could be a requirement for certain business compliance or training purposes.
• CRM Integration: For businesses, integration with Customer Relationship Management CRM systems could be a valuable addition, allowing for better tracking of client interactions.
• Detailed Analytics: Beyond basic call logs, deeper analytics on call volume, peak times, and missed calls could provide valuable insights for businesses.

Onoff.app Pros & Cons: A Balanced Perspective

When evaluating Onoff.app, it’s essential to weigh its advantages against its potential drawbacks.

The service offers significant convenience but also presents certain considerations that users should be aware of. Sourcecad.com Review

Onoff.app Pros

The clear benefits of using Onoff.app revolve around its core offering of virtual phone numbers and the flexibility it provides.

• Enhanced Privacy: By using a second number, users can protect their primary personal number from unwanted calls, spam, or sharing it with less trusted contacts. This is particularly useful for online registrations, e-shopping, or temporary business interactions.
• Streamlined Communication: Consolidating multiple numbers onto a single device reduces the need for carrying multiple phones, simplifying daily life and reducing device clutter.
• Professional Separation: It allows for a clear distinction between personal and professional life. Professionals can give out a dedicated business number without giving up their private contact.
• Flexibility and Control: Features like the On/Off mode, personalized voicemail, and the ability to schedule availability hours give users a high degree of control over when and how they are reachable.
• GSM Call Quality: The “Onoff Calls” technology, utilizing GSM, suggests a focus on reliable call quality, which is crucial for important conversations, differentiating it from purely VoIP-based solutions.
• ARCEP Recognition: Being recognized by ARCEP France’s electronic communications regulatory authority lends a layer of credibility and suggests adherence to certain telecommunication standards. This is a significant point of trust for users concerned about regulatory compliance.

Onoff.app Cons

Despite its advantages, there are aspects of Onoff.app that could be considered limitations or areas for improvement, particularly from an ethical and transparency standpoint.

• Limited Transparency on Data Privacy: While a privacy policy link is present, the homepage doesn’t prominently detail how user data, including communication content and call logs, is handled, stored, or protected. For a service dealing with sensitive personal communication, this lack of immediate transparency can be a concern for privacy-conscious users.
  • User Data: Questions arise regarding data retention periods, encryption practices, and whether data is shared with third parties.
  • Trust Factor: In an era where data breaches are common, a clear, concise statement on data security and privacy on the main landing page would significantly boost user trust.
• Reliance on App Functionality: The service is entirely app-based, meaning its functionality is tied to the performance and compatibility of the application across different devices and operating systems. Any app glitches, updates, or device compatibility issues could impact service availability.
• Potential for Misuse: While intended for legitimate purposes, virtual numbers, if not rigorously regulated by the service provider with strong KYC/AML checks, can theoretically be misused for less ethical activities. The platform’s responsibility in preventing this is crucial, and clarity on such measures is not immediately visible.
• Geographic Limitations Implicit: While not explicitly stated as a con, the French origin and ARCEP recognition might suggest a primary focus on the French market. While English is supported, international users might question service reliability, international call costs, or regulatory differences compared to local alternatives.
• Subscription Model: The service operates on a subscription basis. While common for such services, it represents an ongoing cost, which might not be ideal for users seeking a one-time purchase or completely free alternative.
• Lack of Customer Testimonials/Reviews on Homepage: The website mentions “Ils parlent d’Onoff mieux que nous” They talk about Onoff better than us but doesn’t immediately showcase user reviews or testimonials on the homepage. Social proof is a powerful trust-builder, and its absence means users need to seek external reviews.

Onoff.app Pricing: Understanding the Investment

Understanding the pricing structure of any service is crucial before committing.

Onoff.app presents a tiered approach, seemingly designed to cater to different user segments, from individual freelancers to larger businesses.

Individual and Freelancer Offers

For independent workers and individuals, Onoff.app offers a clear starting point. Neex.com Review

• Base Price: “À partir de 4,92€/ mois” Starting from €4.92/month. This suggests an entry-level plan for core functionalities.
• Premium Option: An additional “+2.99€/mois” for the Premium option. This brings the total for the premium individual plan to approximately €7.91/month.
• Free Trial: A “Try the Premium option for free” offer is available, allowing users to test the advanced features before committing financially. This is a positive for user acquisition, letting potential subscribers experience the full capabilities.

Key Features Included in Standard Plans

The website lists several features available with a national mobile number:

• 1 National Mobile Number: The primary offering.
• 1,000 National Calling Minutes: A substantial allowance for domestic calls.
• 1,000 SMS/MMS: Adequate for most personal and professional messaging needs.
• International Calls with Credits: This implies a pay-as-you-go model for international calls, where users likely purchase additional credits. This needs clearer explanation regarding rates and credit purchase mechanisms.
• Visual Voicemail: A convenient way to manage voicemails.
• On/Off Mode Do Not Disturb: As discussed, this offers control over availability.
• Mobile Application iOS, Android: Ensuring cross-platform accessibility.
• Call Forwarding & Masked Number: Standard privacy and routing features.

Onoff Business for Enterprises

Beyond individual plans, Onoff.app also targets the business segment with a dedicated “Onoff Business” solution.

• Tailored for Companies: Positioned as “the best telephony solution for your company,” indicating features and pricing adapted for multi-user environments.
• Easy Professional Numbers for Employees: Suggests a simplified process for organizations to provision numbers for their staff.
• Separate Website: Onoff Business has its own dedicated website onoffbusiness.com, implying more complex features, administrative controls, and potentially custom pricing or enterprise-level support.

Considerations on Pricing Transparency

While the pricing is clearly stated for individuals, potential users might seek more granular details on:

• International Call Rates: How much do international calls cost per minute, and how are credits purchased and managed?
• Excess Usage Fees: What happens if the 1,000 minutes or SMS/MMS allowances are exceeded? Are there overage charges, or is service throttled?
• Business Plan Details: For Onoff Business, pricing details are not on the main B2C site, requiring businesses to navigate to a separate domain to understand the investment.

Overall, Onoff.app’s pricing seems competitive for the features offered, especially with the inclusion of GSM quality calls.

The free trial for Premium is a good incentive, but greater transparency on international costs and business plan specifics would enhance the user experience. Revengebody.co Review

Onoff.app vs. Traditional SIMs and Other Virtual Number Providers

When considering Onoff.app, it’s natural to compare it with traditional physical SIM cards and other players in the virtual phone number market.

Each option has its unique set of advantages and disadvantages.

Onoff.app vs. Traditional Physical SIM Cards

The primary value proposition of Onoff.app is to eliminate the need for a second physical SIM card or device.

• Convenience:
  • Onoff.app: Offers unparalleled convenience. All numbers are managed within a single app on one device. No physical installation, no swapping cards.
  • Traditional SIMs: Requires either a dual-SIM phone, which might not be universally available or preferred, or carrying a second physical phone, adding bulk and cost.
• Cost:
  • Onoff.app: Operates on a monthly subscription, which can be a predictable expense.
  • Traditional SIMs: Involves purchasing a separate SIM card and potentially managing two distinct mobile plans, which can sometimes be more expensive depending on usage and provider.
• Flexibility:
  • Onoff.app: Easy to activate/deactivate numbers, manage availability, and acquire new numbers quickly.
  • Traditional SIMs: Changing numbers or plans usually involves a more cumbersome process with the mobile network operator.
• Privacy:
  • Onoff.app: Allows users to maintain anonymity for certain interactions by using a secondary number, protecting their primary personal number. However, the data handling of the app itself needs careful review.
  • Traditional SIMs: The numbers are directly tied to a physical identity, offering less immediate privacy for specific, temporary uses.

Onoff.app vs. Other Virtual Number Providers

The market for virtual phone numbers is growing, with various players offering similar services.

Key differentiators often lie in features, pricing, and underlying technology. Versatileride.com Review

• Underlying Technology VoIP vs. GSM:
  • Onoff.app: Emphasizes its “Onoff Calls” GSM technology for better call quality. This is a significant differentiator if call clarity is paramount.
  • Other Providers: Many virtual number providers rely solely on VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol, which can be cheaper but is highly dependent on internet connection stability and quality, sometimes leading to dropped calls or audio issues.
• Feature Set:
  • Onoff.app: Offers a solid set of features including on/off mode, visual voicemail, and specific premium features like multi-device calling and in-call note-taking.
  • Other Providers: Feature sets vary widely. Some might focus heavily on international numbers, others on SMS verification, while some might offer more advanced call center functionalities. It’s crucial for users to compare specific needs against offered features.
• Pricing Models:
  • Onoff.app: Clear monthly subscription model with a premium tier.
  • Other Providers: May offer various models, including pay-per-use, annual subscriptions, or different bundles of minutes/SMS, making direct comparison challenging.
• Geographic Availability:
  • Onoff.app: Primarily focused on national mobile numbers e.g., French national numbers mentioned on the homepage.
  • Other Providers: Many specialize in providing numbers from a vast array of countries, catering to international business needs.
• Regulatory Compliance & Trust:
  • Onoff.app: Being recognized by ARCEP adds a layer of official legitimacy within its operating region.
  • Other Providers: Trust levels vary. Some may be large, reputable global players, while others might be smaller, less regulated entities. Due diligence is crucial, especially regarding data privacy and security.

In essence, Onoff.app appears to strike a balance between convenience and reliable call quality by leveraging GSM technology.

Its focus on national numbers and specific professional features makes it a strong contender for users within its primary operating regions.

However, for those needing extensive international numbers or highly specialized call center features, other providers might offer more tailored solutions.

How to Cancel Onoff.app Subscription: Navigating the Process

For any subscription service, knowing how to cancel is as important as knowing how to sign up.

While the Onoff.app homepage doesn’t explicitly detail the cancellation process, standard practices for app-based subscriptions typically apply. Arrowchat.com Review

General Cancellation Principles for App Subscriptions

Most app subscriptions are managed through the respective app store where the subscription was initiated, or directly through the service provider’s account portal.

• App Store Subscriptions iOS App Store / Google Play Store:
  • If you subscribed to Onoff.app through your Apple App Store or Google Play Store account, the cancellation process usually goes through your device’s settings.
  • For iOS: Go to Settings > > Subscriptions. Find Onoff.app and select ‘Cancel Subscription’.
  • For Android: Open the Google Play Store app > Tap your profile icon > Payments & subscriptions > Subscriptions. Find Onoff.app and tap ‘Cancel subscription’.
• Direct Website/Portal Subscriptions:
  • If you signed up directly on the Onoff.app website or through their web portal e.g., for Onoff Business or specific offers, you would typically log into your account on their website.
  • Look for a ‘Subscription’, ‘Billing’, ‘Account Settings’, or ‘Manage Plan’ section.
  • Within this section, there should be an option to cancel or downgrade your subscription.

Specific Guidance Based on Standard Practice

Given that Onoff.app is an application service, it’s highly probable that cancellation follows these patterns.

1. Check Your Subscription Source: The first step is to recall where you initially subscribed. Was it directly through the Onoff.app website, or via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store?
2. Access Account Settings:
   • Via App Store: Navigate to your device’s subscription management settings as described above.
   • Via Onoff.app Website: Log in to your Onoff.app account if a web portal exists for managing subscriptions. Look for account management or billing options.
3. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Once you locate the subscription, there will usually be a clear prompt to cancel. Be sure to follow all steps to confirm the cancellation.
4. Confirmation: After canceling, you should receive a confirmation email from either the app store or Onoff.app directly, confirming that your subscription has been terminated and detailing when your service will end typically at the end of the current billing cycle.

Important Considerations Before Canceling

• Billing Cycle: Understand that canceling usually prevents future charges, but your service will typically remain active until the end of the current billing period for which you’ve already paid.
• Data Retention: If you are canceling because you no longer need the number, consider what happens to any associated data call logs, messages, contacts after cancellation. This information should be detailed in their privacy policy.
• Number Portability: If you wish to keep your Onoff.app number and port it to another service, investigate their number portability policy before canceling. This process usually needs to be initiated before account closure.

While Onoff.app’s homepage doesn’t explicitly list “How to Cancel,” navigating app store settings or your direct account portal should provide the necessary steps, consistent with industry standards.

How to Cancel Onoff.app Free Trial: Ending Before You’re Charged

A free trial is an excellent way to explore a service without immediate financial commitment.

However, it’s crucial to understand how to cancel it to avoid unintended charges once the trial period ends. Petkit.com Review

Onoff.app explicitly offers a free trial for its Premium option, making this information particularly relevant.

The Mechanism of Free Trials and Auto-Renewal

Most free trials automatically convert into a paid subscription if not canceled before the trial period concludes. This is a standard industry practice.

• Auto-Conversion: The trial period acts as an evaluation phase. Once it expires, the service assumes you want to continue and automatically bills you for the first subscription period.
• Cancellation Deadline: To avoid charges, you must cancel the free trial before the specified end date of the trial. This date is usually communicated when you sign up for the trial.

Steps to Cancel Your Onoff.app Free Trial Based on Common App Practices

The cancellation process for a free trial is generally the same as canceling a paid subscription, as the trial effectively establishes a pending subscription.

1. Identify Your Subscription Source: Determine whether you initiated the free trial directly through the Onoff.app website or via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. This is the most critical first step.
2. Access Subscription Management:
   • For Apple App Store Trials:
     • Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
     • Tap on your Apple ID your name at the top.
     • Tap Subscriptions.
     • Locate Onoff.app in your list of active or expired subscriptions.
     • Tap on it and select “Cancel Free Trial” or “Cancel Subscription.”
   • For Google Play Store Trials:
     • Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
     • Tap your profile icon usually top right.
     • Tap Payments & subscriptions, then Subscriptions.
     • Find Onoff.app in the list.
     • Tap on it and select “Cancel subscription.”
   • For Direct Onoff.app Website Trials:
     • Log in to your Onoff.app account on their website.
     • Look for sections like “Account,” “Settings,” “Billing,” or “Subscription Management.”
     • Within this section, you should find an option to manage or cancel your trial.
3. Confirm Cancellation: Follow any on-screen prompts to confirm that you wish to cancel the free trial. You might be asked for a reason, but providing one is usually optional.
4. Receive Confirmation: Always look for a confirmation message or email that your trial cancellation has been successfully processed. This serves as proof in case of any billing discrepancies later.

Pro-Tip for Free Trials

• Set a Reminder: Immediately after signing up for any free trial, set a calendar reminder a day or two before the trial is scheduled to end. This provides a buffer to cancel if you decide the service isn’t for you, preventing unintended charges.
• Review Terms: Always briefly review the terms and conditions of the free trial. Pay attention to the trial duration, what happens after it ends, and the specific cancellation instructions provided by the service.

By proactively managing your free trial, you can explore Onoff.app’s Premium features without any financial risk.

Onoff.app Alternatives: Exploring Ethical Communication Solutions

While Onoff.app offers a convenient service for managing multiple phone numbers, it’s always wise to explore alternatives that align with ethical considerations, especially concerning data privacy and general digital well-being. Ernestclintonelectrical.co Review

For those seeking robust and privacy-focused communication tools, here are some top alternatives, emphasizing secure and ethical practices.

1. Proton Mail & Proton VPN

For comprehensive digital privacy, the Proton suite offers a strong foundation.

While not directly a virtual phone number service, it provides secure communication channels.

• Proton Mail:
  • Purpose: End-to-end encrypted email service.
  • Ethical Standpoint: Based in Switzerland, known for strong privacy laws. All emails are encrypted, ensuring only the sender and recipient can read them. No personal data logging.
  • Key Features: Zero-access encryption, self-destructing messages, anonymous email aliases.
• Proton VPN:
  • Purpose: Virtual Private Network for secure internet browsing.
  • Ethical Standpoint: Protects online activity from tracking and surveillance. No-logs policy.
  • Key Features: Secure Core architecture, NetShield ad-blocker, P2P support.
• Why an Alternative: While not offering a second phone number, Proton provides a secure ecosystem for email communication and internet access, which is crucial for overall digital privacy and reduces reliance on services that might have less transparent data handling.

2. Signal Private Messenger

For secure instant messaging and voice/video calls, Signal is widely regarded as the gold standard for privacy.

Berry.im Review

• Signal Private Messenger:
  • Purpose: Encrypted messaging and calling application.
  • Ethical Standpoint: Open-source, end-to-end encrypted by default for all communications messages, calls, group chats, file transfers. Funded by grants and donations, not by selling user data.
  • Key Features: Disappearing messages, screen security, anonymous payments optional.
• Why an Alternative: Offers the highest level of privacy for direct communication, ensuring conversations remain truly private, a critical aspect that virtual phone number apps should also strive for regarding the content passing through their service.

3. Tutanota

Another excellent choice for encrypted email, offering a secure alternative to conventional email providers.

• Tutanota:
  • Purpose: Secure, encrypted email and calendar service.
  • Ethical Standpoint: German-based, all data is end-to-end encrypted, including contacts and calendar. Focus on user privacy and security.
  • Key Features: Encrypted mailboxes, encrypted contacts, encrypted calendar, secure connect feature for non-Tutanota recipients.
• Why an Alternative: Similar to Proton Mail, Tutanota emphasizes secure communication, which is a foundational ethical consideration in digital interactions.

4. Hardware Security Keys e.g., YubiKey

While not a communication service, integrating hardware security keys significantly boosts account security across all your online platforms, including communication apps.

• YubiKey 5 Series:
  • Purpose: Physical device for strong two-factor authentication 2FA.
  • Ethical Standpoint: Provides robust phishing resistance and enhances the security of your digital identity, protecting against unauthorized access to accounts.
  • Key Features: Supports multiple authentication protocols FIDO2, U2F, OTP, works with many services, durable.
• Why an Alternative: In an ethical digital ecosystem, robust security is paramount. A YubiKey helps secure email, social media, and even potentially Onoff.app accounts if supported, preventing unauthorized access and protecting your data from breaches.

5. Open-Source Productivity Tools e.g., LibreOffice

For professional tasks that involve documentation and data, open-source alternatives offer transparency and often strong community support.

• LibreOffice:
  • Purpose: A free and open-source office suite.
  • Ethical Standpoint: No hidden tracking, no subscription fees, community-driven development ensures transparency.
  • Key Features: Word processor, spreadsheet, presentation, drawing, database tools.
• Why an Alternative: Moving towards open-source software reduces reliance on proprietary systems that might have opaque data collection practices, aligning with a more ethical and transparent digital environment.

6. Physical Notebooks & Planners

Sometimes, the best digital alternative is a return to analog for sensitive information.

• Moleskine Notebooks:
  • Purpose: Traditional paper notebooks for notes, planning, and ideas.
  • Ethical Standpoint: Completely offline, no data collection, no digital footprint.
  • Key Features: High-quality paper, durable binding, various sizes.
• Why an Alternative: For taking sensitive notes during calls a feature Onoff Premium offers, a physical notebook ensures absolute privacy without digital storage concerns. It removes any theoretical risk of data interception or retention by a third-party service.

7. Encrypted Local Storage Solutions

For storing sensitive digital files securely on your device, rather than relying solely on cloud services. Onyx-traders.com Review

• VeraCrypt:
  • Purpose: Free, open-source disk encryption software.
  • Ethical Standpoint: Provides robust encryption for entire disks, partitions, or virtual encrypted disks. No backdoors, transparent.
  • Key Features: On-the-fly encryption, plausible deniability, supports various operating systems.
• Why an Alternative: While Onoff.app handles communication, ethical users might consider how sensitive files associated with those communications are stored. VeraCrypt ensures that any local digital files like call notes or contact lists are encrypted and secure on your device, independent of cloud services.

These alternatives, while not always direct replacements for a virtual phone number, address the broader ethical considerations of data privacy, security, and responsible digital practices that a discerning user would prioritize alongside convenience.

FAQ

What is Onoff.app?

Onoff.app is a mobile application that provides users with secondary phone numbers, allowing them to manage multiple phone lines on a single device without needing a second physical phone or an additional SIM card.

Is Onoff.app legitimate?

Yes, Onoff.app is operated by Onoff Telecom, which is recognized by ARCEP, the French electronic communications regulatory authority, indicating its legitimacy as a telecommunications operator within its operating region.

How does Onoff.app work?

Onoff.app works by providing virtual mobile numbers directly through its application.

It utilizes “Onoff Calls” technology, which allows calls to be routed via GSM networks for better quality, in addition to VoIP. Sapeproducts.com Review

What are the main features of Onoff.app?

Key features include an On/Off mode for numbers, integrated and personalized voicemail, contact synchronization, VoIP/GSM calling, call forwarding, masked numbers, and a dedicated mobile application for iOS and Android.

Can I use Onoff.app for business?

Yes, Onoff.app offers a “Premium” plan for independent workers and freelancers with advanced features, and a dedicated “Onoff Business” solution for companies needing professional numbers for their employees.

Does Onoff.app offer a free trial?

Yes, Onoff.app offers a free trial for its Premium option, allowing users to test out the enhanced features before subscribing.

How much does Onoff.app cost?

For individuals and freelancers, Onoff.app starts at approximately €4.92 per month, with the Premium option costing an additional €2.99 per month.

Pricing for Onoff Business varies and is available on their dedicated business website. Duronic.com Review

What is the difference between VoIP and GSM calls in Onoff.app?

VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol calls are made over the internet, while GSM Global System for Mobile Communications calls are made over traditional cellular networks.

Onoff.app leverages GSM for potentially better call quality and reliability.

Can I choose my second number with Onoff.app?

The homepage doesn’t explicitly state if users can choose a specific number, but virtual number services often provide a selection of available numbers from which users can pick.

Is Onoff.app available internationally?

While Onoff.app’s homepage primarily mentions national mobile numbers presumably French, given its origin, it supports an English interface.

Details on international number availability or specific international call rates are not prominently displayed on the main page. Xfurbish.com Review

How do I cancel my Onoff.app subscription or free trial?

You typically cancel via the platform where you subscribed: through your device’s settings for Apple App Store or Google Play Store subscriptions, or by logging into your account on the Onoff.app website for direct subscriptions.

Does Onoff.app collect my data?

Like most communication services, Onoff.app likely collects some user data.

While a Privacy Policy link is available, detailed specifics on data handling, retention, and sharing are not immediately summarized on the homepage and require reviewing the full policy.

Can I port my existing number to Onoff.app?

The ability to port an existing number to Onoff.app is not mentioned on the homepage.

If this is a requirement, users would need to consult their FAQ or customer support. Southwesternrailway.com Review

What are the main advantages of using Onoff.app?

Advantages include enhanced privacy, consolidating multiple numbers on one device, maintaining a professional separation, and potentially better call quality due to GSM integration.

Are there any ethical concerns with using virtual numbers like those from Onoff.app?

While the service itself is not inherently unethical, concerns can arise if providers lack transparency on data privacy, user data handling, or if their services are misused for illicit activities due to insufficient identity verification.

What are some ethical alternatives to Onoff.app for communication?

Ethical alternatives for secure communication include encrypted email services like Proton Mail and Tutanota, secure messaging apps like Signal Private Messenger, and using hardware security keys for overall account protection.

Does Onoff.app support SMS and MMS?

Yes, Onoff.app plans typically include an allowance for national SMS and MMS messages, as mentioned on their pricing page.

Can I make international calls with Onoff.app?

Yes, international calls are possible with Onoff.app, usually by purchasing additional call credits, though specific rates and details are not clearly listed on the main website.

Where is Onoff.app headquartered?

Onoff Telecom has offices in Paris, France, and Tallinn, Estonia, as listed in the footer of their homepage.

Does Onoff.app offer customer support?

Yes, a ‘FAQ’ link is available in the footer, leading to a support center, suggesting that customer support resources are available for users.