Google Voice / Verification-Code Theft (Marketplace)
A 'buyer' asks for a code they just sent 'to make sure you're real' — actually a verification code they use to open a Google Voice or other account in your name.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
While you are selling something, an interested 'buyer' says they want to confirm you are a real person and will text you a code to read back. The code is actually a verification code the scammer triggered against your phone number to create a Google Voice number or take over an account tied to it. Reading it back hands them the code. No legitimate buyer needs to 'verify' you with a code.
What it usually looks like
- A buyer wanting to 'verify you're real' before meeting.
- A code texted to you that they ask you to share.
- Reluctance to just meet or pay normally.
- The exchange steered off the marketplace.
Common warning signs
- Anyone asking you to read back a code they 'sent to verify you.'
- A verification code arriving you did not request.
- A buyer more interested in a code than the item.
- Pressure to share the code quickly.
Example wording scammers use
“I've been scammed before — I'll text a Google code, just send it back so I know you're real.”
“Reply with the 6-digit code I just sent to confirm your listing is legit.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- A verification code tied to your phone number.
- To create a Google Voice number or hijack an account in your name.
- Your trust so you share the code.
What to do
- Never share a verification code with anyone, for any reason.
- Tell buyers you do not do 'verification' codes.
- Keep sales inside the marketplace and meet in safe, public spots.
- Block anyone who insists on a code.
What to do if you already responded
- Check google.com/voice and your Google account for a number/access you did not add.
- Reclaim your number/account through the provider's recovery steps.
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.