Ask Asa: Google Voice Verification scam targets trusting consumers
Google Voice lets you make and receive free calls and texts worldwide. It even allows call forwarding. That makes it a desirable alternative to regular phone calls — not just for you and me, but for scammers. Consumer reporter Asa Aarons Smith explains.
Google Voice lets you make and receive free calls and texts worldwide. It even allows call forwarding. That makes it a desirable alternative to regular phone calls — not just for you and me, but for scammers. Consumer reporter Asa Aarons Smith explains.
Google Voice lets you make and receive free calls and texts worldwide. It even allows call forwarding. That makes it a desirable alternative to regular phone calls — not just for you and me, but for scammers. Consumer reporter Asa Aarons Smith explains.
It's known as the Google Voice verification scam. If you're running an internet ad or simply enter your cell phone number in public for some reason, you could be a target.
It starts with a message from someone who claims to be interested in whatever you're buying or selling online. Then the game begins.
Typically, the person contacting you will put you on the defensive. They'll say they need you to prove you're not a scammer. So they'll ask for your cellphone number — and then use it to register for a google voice account or take over one you already have.
Google verifies account requests by sending a 6-digit code to the associated phone. In this case, the scammer will ask you to reveal the code, ostensibly to prove your identity. But, in reality, the scammer uses it to gain access to the Google Voice account registered in your name.
As Bailey Parker, communications director for the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs, explained, "It's just another way that they're taking advantage of verification, things that people are using to keep their information safe."
Why would someone hack your Google Voice account? Some cybercriminals use the accounts to impersonate the alleged owners, which can lead to identity theft. Others use them to commit illegal or fraudulent activities and victimize people by using the good names of those associated with them.
"The best prevention is you, yourself," Parker said.
To avoid falling victim, stay cool, calm and rational. Don't let someone rattle you by suggesting you might be a scammer.
Instead, focus on confirming the legitimacy of the alleged customer if you're selling something. Take your time.
And never, ever share personal information with someone you don't know, whether it's your birthdate, your mother's maiden name or your Google Voice verification code.
This scam isn't new. But like many cons and frauds, it's cyclical. The Federal Trade Commission recently issued a warning about scammers using Google Voice to steal personal information from users on Facebook Marketplace and lost pet message boards. So be aware — and be careful.
