What the Google Voice verification code scam is, and how to protect yourself from it

What is a Google Voice verification code scam?

The Google Voice verification scam is a type of impersonation fraud where scammers trick you into giving them a one-time code sent from Google Voice. This code allows them to create a Google Voice account using your phone number.

Google Voice is a free VoIP service from Google that lets you create a virtual number tied to your Google account. That number can send text messages and make calls, and forward messages to your real phone. 

To set a Google Voice number up, Google sends a one-time verification code to make sure you're a real person with a real number. Here's the catch: If you give someone that code, you're giving them control. They can set up a Voice account using your number, impersonate you in messages or calls, and launch more scams from behind your identity. In some cases, they'll try to use your number to reset passwords and get around two-factor authentication.

It's a clear example of how a simple misstep can lead to a serious cybersecurity problem. It doesn't take malware or hacking tools — just a moment of misplaced trust.

How does a Google Voice verification code scam work?

The classic Google Voice scam is a textbook example of social engineering: manipulating people into giving up sensitive information by exploiting trust, emotion, or urgency. It goes something like this:

1. 1.You post your number online, often in a marketplace, lost pet forum, or gig board.
2. 2.The scammer contacts you. They pretend to be interested in your post or offer help.
3. 3.They ask for a "verification." Claiming they need to "confirm you're real," they say you'll get a code via a text message.
4. 4.You get a 6-digit verification code.
5. 5.You give them the code, thinking it's harmless.

What you've actually done is hand over the final piece they need. With that code and your personal number, they register a Google Voice number in your name. Once a phone number is tied to their account, it can't be reused for another Voice setup. This is why the scammer needs both your number and the accompanying verification code.

From there, things escalate. Cybercriminals can impersonate you, spam others, and use your number to add legitimacy to new scams. In some cases, scammers go further, collecting personal details for impersonation attacks, opening new accounts in your name, or accessing existing ones. Some use your number as a front to send phishing texts or messages to new targets (for example, as part of a fake job scam or online dating scam). 

How to recognize legitimate Google messages and calls 

Watch out for scammers pretending to be from Google. Remember these tips to tell the difference:

• Google won't contact you out of the blue asking for codes. Verification codes will only appear if you trigger an action. Plus, official texts often come from shortcodes like 22000 or Google.
• Google will never request your password or full 2FA codes. Neither will it ask you to install remote desktop software or send money or cryptocurrency.
• Text messages from Google are meant for you and you alone. If someone asks for your one-time code, they're trying to access your account, not help you protect it.

Red flags to watch out for:

• Urgent or emotional language: "Act now, or your account will be suspended!"
• Requests for verification codes you didn't initiate.
• Unfamiliar numbers, even if the message looks legit.
• "Support" calls where they ask for your login info.

Types of Google Voice verification code scams

The main trick is always the same: get your code and hijack your number. But scammers adapt it for different situations.

Marketplace verification scams

You list something on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. A "buyer" messages you, interested — but first, they want to make sure you're not a scammer. They say they need a Google verification code to "confirm your identity." You send it. Game over.

Lost pet or community post scams

You post about a missing pet, asking for help. Someone says they found your dog, but before giving any details, they want to "make sure you're real." Again, they request a code. This type of scam hits hard emotionally, which makes people more likely to comply.

Fake job or gig opportunity scams

A supposed recruiter or gig provider asks for your number and then says they need to "verify your identity." The code they trigger is just a way to hijack your Google Voice number.

Romance or trust-building scams

Some cons are longer — someone builds rapport and then claims they need to "verify your number" for some reason. This version is often part of larger fraud setups, like cryptocurrency or wire transfer scams.

Fake tech support scams

Scammers also often impersonate Google support. They may say your account has been compromised, and they need your code to help secure it. Ironically, giving them that code is what puts your account at risk.

How to protect yourself from the Google Voice verification code scam

The Google Voice code scam can lead to impersonation, spam, and identity theft. You don't need to panic — just stay sharp and follow these tips:

• Never share verification codes with anyone. If someone asks, they're trying to access your account or register a new one in your name.
• Enable 2FA using an app, not SMS. Google Authenticator and Authy are generally safer than text-based codes.
• Avoid posting your number publicly. Use email or messaging apps when possible.
• If you're selling something, use trusted payment systems. Be skeptical of buyers who ask for "identity verification."
• Check your Google account settings regularly. Go to your Google Account and review any linked devices or numbers.
• Look out for phishing attempts. These often piggyback on voice scams and can include links to fake login pages or credential-stealing forms.
• Use a strong password. Make it unique and update it if you've been compromised.

Reporting and recovering from a scam

If you've already fallen victim to a Google Voice scam, follow these steps:

1. 1.Reclaim your Google Voice number. Go to voice.google.com and follow the prompts to reclaim your number. You may need to use your original phone number to verify ownership.
2. 2.Secure your Google account. Change your password immediately, turn on 2FA (preferably app-based), and check your account activity for suspicious logins.
3. 3.Report the scam:
   • Report to Google via their support page or the "Report abuse" link in Google Voice.
   • If you suspect identity theft, report it to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov.
   • For local scams, contact your local law enforcement or consumer protection agency.
4. 4.Tell your contacts. If the scammer is using your number to contact others, let them know it wasn't you.