WeChat setting up problems

Question

I am unable to log in to newly installed WeChat (not WeChatPay) as I am getting an error message (Account or Password error). I get the same error message when I tried with my mobile number or email. I tried to seek help by filling the contact form and contact form require me to attach screenshot of error message. But the uploading of screenshot doesn't work and it is very frustrating! I am using an Android phone with my Australian mobile number. What is the required format for inputting mobile number? After the country code I just input the mobile number without the '0'. Also now I have a Chinese data SIM and should I set up with that Chinese number? If I am using Chinese number which country should I put Australia or China? My guess is if I put Chinese number it may then ask Chinese ID card number. Any advice is appreciated.

Answer

WeChat login issues can be frustrating, especially when using international numbers and trying to set up on a new device. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help troubleshoot your situation.

Mobile number format:

When registering or logging in with an international number, you must include the country code (for Australia +61) and then the mobile number without the leading 0. For example, if your number is 0412 345 678, you should enter +61 412 345 678.
Ensure there are no spaces or extra characters if the app does not accept spaces, or alternatively, some versions allow spaces for readability.

Using a Chinese SIM:

If you register with a Chinese mobile number, you should select China as the country code. WeChat may link the account to your number and may ask for additional verification, potentially requiring a Chinese ID if certain verification steps are triggered.
Using a Chinese SIM does not automatically require a Chinese ID, but in some cases, the verification can be stricter if the account is new or if WeChat detects frequent international logins.

Login error and troubleshooting:

If you are getting "Account or Password error," double-check that you are entering the correct combination of country code and mobile number or email. Ensure you are using the latest version of WeChat.
Clear cache or reinstall WeChat to remove any corrupted data that may cause login issues.
If filling the contact form is not allowing screenshot uploads, try submitting a simplified report with just text describing the error; sometimes the support team can still respond.
Consider using an alternative login method if available, such as logging in via email or via a previously linked WeChat account on another device.

Recommendation:

Stick with your Australian number if you want to avoid Chinese ID requirements. Use the correct international format (+61 without leading zero).
Ensure your phone can receive international SMS for verification codes; some Australian SIMs may have roaming issues in China.
If problems persist, try using a VPN temporarily to register or log in from outside China, as sometimes access from Chinese networks can cause account verification issues for foreign numbers.

Following these steps should help you set up WeChat successfully without needing to switch to a Chinese number or submit Chinese ID verification.