Google Voice verification code scam

You list an item and a buyer texts almost immediately. Before meeting, they want to check you're not a bot, so they'll send a six-digit code and ask you to read it back. That code sets up a Google Voice number registered to your phone, which they then use to run scams that trace back to you.

• Buyer asks to verify you with a code before discussing the item
• Immediate reply to a fresh listing, no questions about the item
• Conversation pushed off-platform straight away
• Refusal to meet in person

"Hi, is the bike still available? Sorry, too many scammers here — I'm sending a code, just text it back so I know you're real."

1. 01Never share a verification code with a buyer or seller.
2. 02Keep the conversation inside the marketplace platform.
3. 03If you shared one, reclaim the number at voice.google.com and remove your phone.
4. 04Report the account to the marketplace.