You need some sort of verification that the person is a person. Phone number puts a layer between you and the service you are trying to use - the provider of the number. The provider holds your identity but only passes on a phone number.
It’s definitely not ideal, but not bad
Why do technically inept people think they’re entitled to the dumbest takes, just look like a bunch of wankers. If you’re gonna post your mental diarrhea do it with the same level of shame as everyone else.