Why is someone asking for my Google Voice code?
A buyer, seller, or stranger asking you to repeat a six-digit Google Voice code is attempting account verification fraud.
“I need to know you are a real person. I sent you a six-digit Google Voice code. Text it back to me.”
Why this is suspicious
The code was sent to prove control of your phone number, not to prove that you are trustworthy. A scammer can use it to create a Google Voice number connected to your phone and hide their identity while targeting others.
Warning signs
- A stranger says the code proves you are real
- The code arrived directly from Google
- The person insists they need the number before meeting or buying
- They ask for a screenshot of the code
What to do next
- Do not share the code
- Stop communicating with the person
- Use Google's recovery instructions if you already shared it
- Report the account or listing through the marketplace
If you already clicked or paid
For guidance on what to do after a possible scam, visit the FTC’s recovery guide. It covers different situations, including payments and personal information.
Official source: FTC Google Voice scam guidance
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