Here's Why You Should Never Share This

If you’ve ever received a text or email with a six-digit verification code, you may wonder why someone would ask for it. These codes are part of two-factor authentication, which adds an extra layer of security to online accounts. It’s meant to protect your information by requiring both a password and a unique code sent to your phone or email. But scammers have found ways to exploit this system.

What Is a Verification Code?

A verification code is a six-digit number that confirms your identity during logins or secure transactions. It’s designed to keep your accounts safe, but scammers have become adept at tricking people into handing them over. By obtaining your password and verification code, a scammer can hijack your account.

Why Would Scammers Want Your Code?

Scammers often trick people by posing as companies, claiming they need the verification code for “security purposes.” They may also impersonate a friend or buyer in online marketplaces. Once they have your code, they can take over your accounts and can access your personal information or money. One common scam occurs on Facebook Marketplace^® where scammers pose as buyers and request a seller’s phone number and six-digit code to “verify the seller is real.” These scammers typically use the phone numbers to set up Google Voice^® accounts, which they then use in other schemes or for identity fraud.

How Scammers Trick You

A common tactic involves a scammer impersonating a business or customer service agent, claiming they need your code to fix an issue with your account. In reality, they are trying to gain full access by resetting your password. Once they have control, scammers can change account details, transfer funds, or commit identity fraud.

How to Protect Yourself

Never share your verification code, not even with tech support or customer service. If someone asks for it, it’s almost certainly a scam. Legitimate companies will never request a verification code unsolicited. Additional security measures like biometric authentication such as fingerprint or facial recognition can help further protect your accounts.

References: BBB Tip: Six-digit verification code safety | What’s a verification code and why would someone ask me for it?