Google voice code scam: How the verification scam works (Watch Out)

Be wary of Google Voice verification code scams on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, and other apps. Continue reading to learn more.

Assume you are a seller who is listing a vehicle on Facebook Marketplace. If you receive one or more messages within seconds or minutes, and those potential buyers show urgency and a strong interest in purchasing the bicycle, they may be scammers.

The Facebook Marketplace scammers will ask for your phone number if they haven’t already obtained it from the listing as part of their code scam strategy.

They will also tell you that they are skeptical of you and believe you are a scammer, which is obviously false. They then say they will buy the bicycle, but you must first reassure them that you are not a scammer by providing the Google Voice verification code that you received in a text message.

If you provide them with the verification code, they will attempt to create a Google Voice number that is linked to your phone number.

What Will Happen Next? The scammer could use that number to defraud others while concealing their identity. Sometimes these scammers want your Google Voice verification code and other personal information. If they obtain enough of your information, they may be able to impersonate you and access your accounts or open new accounts in your name.

They may also attempt to gain access to your Google account, and personal information, or even use a complex scam to gain access to your Facebook account.

Whatever the reason, don’t share your Google Voice verification code — or any verification code — with anyone.