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Never read a verification code to anyone

What verification codes do, why callers who ask for them are scammers, common tricks, and what to do if you already shared one.

Quick answer

Verification codes are keys that prove it’s really you logging in or resetting a password. Anyone who asks you to read one to them is almost certainly trying to break into your account; real companies never ask. Watch for fake fraud teams, sellers who want to “verify you’re real,” and fake prizes. Hang up and call the number on your card or bill. If you already shared a code, change that account’s password right away and call the company.

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Your checklist

  • Know codes are keys to your accounts
  • Never read or forward a code
  • Know real companies never ask for it
  • Hang up and call the real number
  • Shared one? Change your password now
  • Tell family about this scam

Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.

What the codes are

When someone signs in to an account or resets a password, the company may text or email a short code to make sure it’s really you.

Why scammers want it

If someone asks you to read a code to them, they’re usually logging into your account at that moment. With your code, they can get in, change your password and take money or information.

Common tricks

  • “We’re your bank’s fraud team; read me the code to stop a charge.”
  • A seller online says, “I’m sending you a code to make sure you’re real.”
  • “You won a prize; confirm the code.”
  • “Your account will be closed unless you verify.”

What to do

Never read, forward or type a code for someone who contacted you. Hang up and call the number on your card, bill or the company’s official website.

If you already shared one

Change that account’s password right away, sign out of other devices, and contact the company. Check your email and bank for changes. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Official sources, and where to look

To find your local office, search for:

  • FTC verification code scam
  • how to turn on two-step verification

Pick sites that end in .gov. Official forms are almost always free.

Common questions

Is it ever OK to share a verification code?

Only by typing it yourself into the official app or website you’re using. Never read it to a caller or send it to someone. More ›

Why did I get a code I didn’t ask for?

Someone may be trying to get into your account. Don’t share it, and consider changing your password. More ›

Why would someone ask for my verification code?

Because they’re trying to get into your account and the code is the last step. Never share it. More ›

Will my bank ever ask for a code over the phone?

Some banks may verify you when you call them, but a caller who contacted you and asks you to read a code is a red flag. Hang up and call the number on your card. More ›

What is the Google Voice code scam?

A stranger, often from an online listing, asks you to read them a code to “prove you’re real.” They use it to set up a phone number in your name. More ›

What should I do if I gave someone my code?

Change the account’s password immediately, sign out of other devices, and contact the company. Check for changes to your email, bank and phone settings. More ›

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Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.