High riskMarketplace Scams

Google Voice Verification Code Scam

On a marketplace, a supposed buyer or seller asks you to share a verification code texted to your phone to 'prove you are real'. The code is actually used to set up a Google Voice number linked to you, which the scammer then uses for further fraud.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Verification code theft scam
Main red flag
A marketplace contact asks you to read back a verification code that was just texted to your phone.
What to do first
Do not share the code with anyone. A code sent to you is for you alone, never to prove your identity to a buyer or seller.

What this scam usually looks like

On a marketplace, a supposed buyer or seller asks you to share a verification code texted to your phone to 'prove you are real'. The code is actually used to set up a Google Voice number linked to you, which the scammer then uses for further fraud.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Hi, before I drive over for the item I just want to be sure you are a real seller. I am sending a Google verification code to your number, can you read it back to me?'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • A buyer or seller asks for a verification code sent to your phone
  • The reason given is to 'confirm you are real' or 'not a bot'
  • They want to text or call you a code before meeting or paying
  • An unusual amount of caution from a stranger early in the conversation
  • Pressure to share the code quickly so the deal can 'go ahead'

What to do

  • Refuse to share any code; legitimate buyers and sellers never need one from you
  • Keep the conversation on the marketplace platform itself
  • Block and report the account to the marketplace
  • If you use Google Voice, check your account for any number you did not set up

If you already clicked or replied

  • If you shared a code, check whether a Google Voice number was created using your phone and reclaim or remove it through Google's help pages
  • Secure your Google account by changing the password and turning on two-step verification
  • Watch for further codes or sign-in attempts and do not approve them
  • Report the incident to the marketplace and to your national anti-fraud centre

What not to do

  • Do not read out or type any verification code for another person
  • Do not move the conversation to text or another app to 'verify'
  • Do not assume a cautious-sounding stranger is therefore trustworthy

Similar scams

High risk Text Message

Two-Factor Code Text Scam

In this scam a fraudster triggers a genuine two-factor or one-time code to your phone, then poses as support staff or a contact to pressure you into reading it back so they can take over your account.
High risk Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace Buyer Email Scam

A fake buyer claims to have paid through an email service and asks you to confirm a fee or send the 'difference' before any real money arrives.
Medium risk Text Message

Wrong Number Text Scam

This scam starts with a friendly 'wrong number' text, builds a casual conversation over time, and eventually steers you toward a fake investment.

Frequently asked questions

Why would a code prove I am real?
It would not. Verification codes confirm control of an account or number, so a request to share one is a strong sign of a scam, not a genuine check.
What does the scammer gain from my code?
They can link a new Google Voice number to your phone number and use it to scam others, making the activity look like it came from you.
I shared the code already. What now?
Secure your Google account, check for any Google Voice number tied to your number through Google's reclaim process, and report the incident.
How do I avoid this when buying or selling online?
Never share codes texted to you, keep chats on the platform, and treat any verification request from a buyer or seller as a red flag.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.