Facebook Marketplace 'Is This Still Available' + Google Voice Code Scam Examples
A buyer messages about an item you listed, asks a normal question, then says they need to verify you're a real person by having you read back a code that will be texted to your phone. That code is actually a Google Voice verification code, and sharing it lets the scammer set up a Google Voice number linked to your phone number, which they then use to run further scams while hiding their identity behind your real number. The claimed purpose is fake, and the request is the entire scam. Never share a verification code with anyone, no matter the reason given.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
Hi! Is this still available? I want to buy it but I need to verify you're a real seller. Can I send you a Google Voice code?
Interested in your item! Before I send payment I need to verify you're not a bot. You'll get a 6-digit code — just share it with me.
Is this still for sale? I'm out of town but can PayPal you. I just need to confirm you're real — what's the code Google just texted you?
I'd love to buy this! Can you give me the verification code that was just sent to your number so I know you're genuine?
What the scammer wants
To claim your phone number as a Google Voice number linked to your account, which they then use to scam others while hiding their identity behind your number.
Red flags in the message
- Buyer asks you to share a code sent to your phone
- Mentions 'Google Voice', 'verification', or 'prove you're real'
- Overly eager to buy without asking about the item
- Pressures you quickly before you have time to think
- Asks you to act before they have even agreed a price
A safe response
Never share any code sent to your phone with a buyer. Hang up or stop messaging. A genuine buyer does not need a code from your phone to make a purchase.
What not to send
- Any 6-digit code sent to your number
- Google account credentials
- Personal contact information
What to do if you already replied
- Reclaim your Google Voice number via voice.google.com immediately
- Report the buyer to Facebook Marketplace
- Warn other sellers in the same local selling group
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot the full message or call details
- Note the sender number, email, or profile
- Save any links (without clicking) and payment details
- Record dates and times
Frequently asked questions
What can they actually do with the code once I share it?
Sharing the code lets them create a Google Voice number tied to your phone number, which they can then use to scam other people while appearing to be you. It doesn't give them direct access to your bank accounts, but it misuses your number and can cause complaints traced back to you.
I already read the code out to them — what should I do?
Check your Google account for any new Google Voice number linked to it and remove it if one appears, and change your Google account password as a precaution. Report the buyer's profile to the marketplace platform and stop further contact.
Is there ever a legitimate reason a buyer needs to text-verify me?
No, real buyers do not need to send you a verification code to prove you're a genuine seller — this verification story is always a script used to obtain the code. Any request to read back a code sent to your phone should be refused.
How can I safely verify a buyer is legitimate?
Stick to communicating and, where possible, transacting within the marketplace platform's own messaging and payment tools, and meet in a public place for in-person exchanges. Be cautious of buyers who quickly steer the conversation toward codes, off-platform payment, or personal information.