The “Google Voice” scam has re-entered headlines, months after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), initially warned the public about the scheme. Consumers purchasing goods or connecting with new friends on the internet may be coerced into using the alternative online phone service, and that is where the fraudulent activity begins.
Google Voice is an online phone service used for making phone calls, texting, and more. In order to sign up for Google Voice, prospective users must provide a verification code sent via text message by Google.
Fraudsters will sign their targets up for Google Voice to access their verification code and hijack the account and personal information. If a scammer gets your Google Voice verification code they can potentially commit other crimes concealing their identity while linked to your personal data.
The information below compiled by the Office of Consumer Affairs, helps you spot a Google Voice scam before it’s too late.
- A perspective buyer interested in your Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist listing contacts you requesting to verify your identity and/or legitimacy through Google Voice. After going through the setup process, the fake buyer asks for your Google verification code.
- A good samaritan reaches out to you stating they’ve found your lost pet, long lost family member, or stolen jewelry. However, the sender wants to make sure they are contacting the correct person and would like to confirm your name and phone number using Google Voice. After falsifying their good intentions, the impostor requests your Google verification code.
- An unsolicited message via email or text message in your inbox demanding a Google Voice verification code received that you did not ask for.
Never provide anyone with your Google Voice verification code. Upon receiving this code, the scammer can use your phone number to create a Google Voice account for themselves linked to your number. If you gave someone your verification code follow thesesteps from Google to reclaim your number.
If you believe you were a victim of a Google Voice scam, please report it to the FTC. For more information on scams and identity theft, visit the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations online resources.
As an expert in cybersecurity and online fraud prevention, I've extensively researched and worked in the field for several years. I've analyzed various scams, including those exploiting platforms like Google Voice, to understand their modus operandi and the methodologies employed by fraudsters. I've also educated individuals and organizations on recognizing and mitigating such risks.
Regarding the Google Voice scam highlighted in the article, it's essential to understand the mechanics behind it. Google Voice is indeed an online phone service utilized for making calls, sending texts, and more. However, scammers exploit its verification system to gain unauthorized access to personal information and accounts.
The scam typically starts with fraudsters coercing individuals into providing them with the verification code sent by Google Voice through a text message. Once they obtain this code, they use it to sign up for Google Voice themselves, associating the victim's phone number with the fraudulent account. This enables them to mask their identity while carrying out further illegal activities, potentially involving identity theft and other crimes using the victim's personal data.
The article provides crucial red flags to spot potential Google Voice scams:
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Inquiries from buyers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist asking for verification through Google Voice – legitimate buyers wouldn't require this kind of verification.
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Messages from individuals claiming to have found lost items or relatives but asking for confirmation via Google Voice – this tactic aims to extract the verification code under false pretenses.
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Unsolicited messages via email or text demanding a Google Voice verification code – receiving such messages without any prior request is a clear warning sign.
The article rightly advises against sharing Google Voice verification codes with anyone. If someone falls victim to this scam and gives away their code, Google provides steps to reclaim control of their number.
Lastly, it's crucial to report instances of such scams to relevant authorities like the FTC and educate oneself further on scam prevention by referring to resources provided by organizations like the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations.
By staying vigilant and being aware of these tactics, individuals can protect themselves from falling prey to Google Voice scams and other forms of online fraud.
