Scam warning
Buyer Wants to Send Me a Code
You're selling something on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. A buyer says they want to make sure you're real, and will send you a code by text. When you read it back, you've given them a way to set up a phone number or take over your account in your name.
Also called: Google Voice scam, Verification code scam, Marketplace code scam
The one thing to remember
Never read a texted code to anyone, for any reason. Real buyers don't need to “verify” you.
How it happens
- You list something for sale.
- A buyer says there are many scammers, so they want to check you're real.
- They say: “I'm sending you a code, please tell me what it is.”
- That code lets them create a phone number linked to you, or get into your account, to scam others.
Warning signs
- Any stranger asking for a code that came to your phone.
- A buyer who is very eager but never asks about the item.
- Requests to move to text or email right away.
What to do
- Don't share codes. Stop replying.
- If you did share one, change your passwords and turn on two-step login.
- Sell to buyers in person, and keep messages inside the app.
Last checked: October 31, 2026