Technology
How scammers use Google Voice verification codes to steal your identity, money
Have you ever received a text message or a phone call from someone asking you to verify your identity by sending them a code?
If you have, you may have been targeted by the Google Voice verification code scam.
This is a sneaky and dangerous scam that allows fraudsters to hijack your phone number and use it to scam other people.
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Woman taking a photo to sell items (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What is Google Voice?
Google Voice is a free service that lets you make and receive calls, texts and voicemails online. You can use it on your computer, smartphone or tablet. You can also link your Google Voice number to your existing phone number, so you can use both numbers interchangeably.
Google Voice has many features that make it convenient and useful, such as, voicemail transcription, call forwarding, spam filtering, custom greetings, International calling and Google Assistant integration. However, Google Voice also has a verification process that requires you to enter a code that is sent to your phone number. This is where the scammers come in.
BEWARE OF THIS SNEAKY GOOGLE ATTACK THAT STEALS YOUR EXPIRED COOKIES
Google Voice Verification code (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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What is the Google Voice verification scam?
The Google Voice Verification Scam is a known scam, according to the FTC, but it’s not as widely known by the general public. Here’s how it works.
First, the scammer contacts you via text, email, or phone, pretending to be interested in buying something from you, hiring you, dating you, or any other plausible reason. They may use a fake name, photo, or profile to lure you in.
Second, the scammer asks you to verify your identity by sending them a code that they claim is from Google, Craigslist, Facebook, or any other platform. They may say that this is for security, verification, or confirmation purposes.
Next, the scammer actually initiates a Google Voice setup process using your phone number. They request a verification code from Google, which is then sent to your phone number via text or call.
Then, the scammer asks you to forward the code to them, or tell them the code over the phone. In this case, if you forward or tell them the code, they’ll enter it and complete the Google Voice setup. This means that they now have access to your Google Voice account and number, and they can use it to make calls, send or read texts and receive voicemails online. Where this gets tricky is financial institutions often send similar codes to verify transactions, so if the scammer has possession of your Google Voice account, they can potentially approve transactions out of your account.
Lastly, the scammer can also use your Google Voice number to scam other people, by pretending to be you or someone else. They can also access your personal information, such as your contacts, messages and voicemails, that are linked to your Google Voice account.
Example of Google Voice Verification code text (FTC)
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Isn’t this scam obvious?
You would think, right? But, even the most experienced sellers who have dealt with their fair share of complex scams are all new to those on Facebook Marketplace. The reason the Google Voice verification scam has been so effective is because these scammers use manipulation to accomplish their scam.
By telling you that they need to check whether or not you are trustworthy, it triggers Facebook Marketplace sellers to demonstrate, “Of course I’m trustworthy, and I’m willing to do whatever I can to prove it, especially if this person is interested in buying from me.”
After all, the concept of an online buyer wanting to confirm the sellers — and the products they are buying are legitimate is common practice. But, in Facebook Marketplace, the lack of regulations makes it easy for both sellers and buyers to become victims of scams. Unfortunately, sellers tend not even to give this scam a second thought, until it’s too late.
What to do if you are a victim of the Google Voice scam
If you have fallen victim to the Google Voice verification code scam, don’t panic. There are some steps you can take to reclaim your number and protect your identity. Here is what you should do:
Change your Google account password and enable two-factor authentication on a separate device. It ensures that the scammer, who might have compromised your primary device, cannot interfere with these security measures.This will prevent the scammer from accessing your Google account and any other services that are linked to it, such as Gmail, YouTube, or Google Photos. You should also regularly check your account activity and review your security settings to see if there are any suspicious or unauthorized actions or devices.
Report the scam to the FTC and your local authorities. You can file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can also contact your local police department and file a report. Provide as much information as you can about the scam and the scammer, and keep a copy of the report for your records.
Monitor your credit reports and bank statements. The scammer may have obtained your personal or financial information from your Google Voice account or other sources and may try to use it for identity theft or fraud. You should check your credit reports regularly and look for any errors or suspicious activities. You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) once a year at www.annualcreditreport.com. You should also review your bank statements and alert your bank if you notice any unauthorized transactions or charges.
Use identity theft protection: Identity Theft protection companies can monitor personal information like your Home title, Social Security Number, phone number and email address and alert you if it is being used to open an account. They can also assist you in freezing your bank and credit card accounts to prevent further unauthorized use by criminals.
If you want a service that will walk you through every step of the reporting and recovery process, one of the best things you can do to protect yourself from this type of fraud is to subscribe to an identity theft service. See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.
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How to reclaim your Google Voice number if someone has stolen it
Google Voice works by linking to your actual phone number (though some people opt for a new number altogether). If you go to link your phone number and you see that it’s been claimed (and you have no recollection of ever linking it yourself), that means that someone has your number.
Whether or not they got it because you were a victim of this Google Voice verification scam or maybe another way, they’ve now gotten your Google Voice number. Follow the steps from Google Help to reclaim your number and prevent these hackers from doing more harm.
3 ways to avoid the Google Voice verification code scam
The best way to avoid the Google Voice verification code scam is to be vigilant and cautious online. Here are some tips to help you spot and prevent the scam.
1. Never share your verification code with anyone. The verification code is meant for your eyes only. It is not a proof of identity, nor a confirmation of anything. If someone asks you to send them a code, or tell them a code over the phone, it is a red flag that they are trying to scam you. Google, Craigslist, Facebook or any other legitimate platform will never ask you for your verification code.
2. Do your research and trust your instincts. Before you engage with someone online, do some background checks and verify their identity and credibility. You can use search engines, social media, or reverse phone lookup tools to find out more about them. You can also ask them for references, reviews, or testimonials from previous customers or partners.
3. If something seems too good to be true, or too fishy to be real, it probably is. Trust your gut and walk away from any deal or offer that makes you feel uncomfortable or suspicious.
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Kurt’s key takeaways
The Google Voice verification code scam is a clever and dangerous scam that can cost you your phone number, your Google account and your identity. By being aware of how the scam works, and following the tips above, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling prey to this scam.
Have you ever been asked to provide a verification code when selling online? What happened? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
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Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Microsoft’s Edge Copilot update uses AI to pull information from across your tabs
Microsoft Edge is adding a new feature that will allow its Copilot AI chatbot to gather information from all of your open tabs. When you start a conversation with Copilot, you can ask the chatbot questions about what’s in your tabs, compare the products you’re looking at, summarize your open articles, and more.
In its announcement, Microsoft says you can “select which experiences you want or leave off the ones you don’t.” The company is retiring Copilot Mode as well, which could similarly draw information from your tabs but offered some agentic features, like the ability to book a reservation on your behalf. Microsoft has since folded these agentic capabilities into its “Browse with Copilot” tool.
Several other AI features are coming to Edge, including an AI-powered “Study and Learn” mode that can turn the article you’re looking at into a study session or interactive quiz. There’s a new tool that turns your tabs into AI-powered podcasts as well, similar to what you’d find on NotebookLM, and an AI writing assistant that will pop up when you start entering text on a webpage.
You can also give Copilot permission to access your browsing history to provide more “relevant, high-quality answers,” according to Microsoft. Copilot in Edge on desktop and mobile will come with “long-term memory” as well, which can tailor its responses based on your previous conversations. And, when you open up a new tab, you’ll see a redesigned page that combines chat, search, and web navigation, along with the Journeys feature, which uses AI to organize your browsing history into categories that you can revisit.
Meanwhile, an update to Edge’s mobile app will allow you to share your screen with Copilot and talk through the questions about what you’re seeing. Microsoft says you’ll see “clear visual cues” when Copilot is active, “so you know when it’s taking an action, helping, listening, or viewing.”
Technology
Apple’s $250M Siri settlement: Are you owed cash?
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If you bought a newer iPhone because Apple made Siri sound like it was about to become your personal artificial intelligence sidekick, you may want to pay attention.
Apple has agreed to pay $250 million to settle a class-action lawsuit over claims that it misled customers about new Apple Intelligence and Siri features. The case centers on the iPhone 16 launch and certain iPhone 15 models that were marketed as ready for Apple’s next wave of AI. The settlement still needs court approval, and Apple denies wrongdoing.
The lawsuit argues that Apple promoted a smarter, more personal Siri before those features were actually available. For some buyers, that was a big deal. A new iPhone can cost hundreds of dollars, and many people upgrade only when they think they are getting something meaningfully new.
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WHY IPHONE USERS ARE THE NEW PRIME SCAM TARGETS
U.S. buyers of certain iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro models may qualify for payments if a judge approves Apple’s proposed settlement. (Getty Images)
What Apple is accused of promising
Apple introduced Apple Intelligence in June 2024 and promoted it as a major step forward for iPhone, iPad and Mac. A key part of that pitch was a more personalized Siri that could understand context, work across apps and help with everyday tasks in a more useful way.
The lawsuit claims Apple’s marketing made consumers believe those advanced Siri features would arrive with the iPhone 16 or soon after. Instead, buyers received phones that had some Apple Intelligence tools, but not the full Siri overhaul that many expected.
That gap is the heart of the case. Plaintiffs say customers bought or upgraded devices based on AI features that were not ready. Apple says it has rolled out many Apple Intelligence features and settled the case, so it can stay focused on its products.
How much money could iPhone owners get?
The proposed settlement creates a $250 million fund. Eligible customers who file approved claims are expected to receive at least $25 per eligible device. That amount could rise to as much as $95 per device, depending on how many people file claims and other settlement factors.
That means this will not be a huge payday for most people. Still, if you bought one of the covered phones, it may be worth watching for a claim notice. A few minutes of paperwork could put some money back in your pocket.
Which iPhones may qualify?
The proposed settlement covers U.S. buyers who purchased any iPhone 16 model, iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max between June 10, 2024, and March 29, 2025.
Covered iPhone 16 models include the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16e. The settlement also includes the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, but not every iPhone 15 model.
The key details are the device model, the purchase date and whether the phone was bought in the United States.
HOW YOU CAN GET A SLICE OF APPLE’S $250M IPHONE SETTLEMENT
Apple has agreed to pay $250 million to settle claims it misled customers about Apple Intelligence and Siri features on newer iPhones. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg)
How will you file a claim?
You do not need to do anything immediately. The settlement still needs a judge’s approval. Once the claims process opens, eligible customers are expected to receive a notice by email or mail with instructions on how to file through a settlement website.
That notice matters because scammers love moments like this. A real settlement notice should not ask for your Apple ID password, bank login or payment to claim your money. If you receive a message about this settlement, do not click blindly. Go slowly, check the sender and look for the official settlement administrator details once they are available.
Why this case matters beyond one Siri feature
This case hits a bigger nerve. Tech companies are racing to sell AI as the next must-have feature. That creates a problem for shoppers. You are often asked to buy now based on what a company says will arrive later.
That can be frustrating when the feature is the reason you upgraded. A smarter Siri sounds useful. A phone that can understand your personal context, search across apps and help with daily tasks could save time. But if those tools are delayed, limited or missing, the value of the upgrade changes.
This settlement also sends a message about AI marketing. Companies can talk about future features, but consumers need clear timing and plain explanations. “Coming soon” can mean very different things when you are spending $800, $1,000 or more.
We reached out to Apple for comment, but did not hear back before our deadline.
FIRST 15 THINGS TO DO OR TRY FIRST WHEN YOU GET A NEW IPHONE
Apple denies wrongdoing but agreed to settle claims tied to its marketing of Apple Intelligence and Siri features. (Qilai Shen/Bloomberg)
What this means to you
If you bought a covered iPhone during the settlement period, keep an eye on your email and regular mail. You may qualify for a payment if the court approves the deal.
You should also keep your receipt or proof of purchase if you have it. Your Apple purchase history, carrier account or retailer receipt may help if the claim process asks for details.
More broadly, this is a reminder to treat AI features like any other big tech promise. Before you upgrade, ask one simple question: Can the feature do what is being advertised today, or is the company asking me to wait?
That question can save you from buying a device for a future feature that may arrive much later than expected.
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Kurt’s key takeaways
Apple has built its brand on making technology feel polished, personal and easy to use. That is why this Siri settlement hits a nerve. People were buying phones they use every day for texts, photos, directions, reminders and everything in between. Many expected AI to make those everyday tasks easier, which is why the delay felt frustrating. The proposed payout may be modest, but the bigger issue is trust. When a company sells AI as a reason to upgrade, customers deserve to know what actually works now and what is still coming later.
Would you still buy a new phone for promised AI features, or would you wait until they actually show up? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.
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Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Technology
Instagram hits the copy button again with new disappearing Instants photos
Instagram is once again cribbing from competitors like Snapchat and BeReal with a new photo-sharing format it calls “Instants,” which are ephemeral photos that you can’t edit and that you can only share with your close friends or followers that follow you back. Instants are available globally beginning on Wednesday as a feature in the inbox in the Instagram app and as a separate app that’s now in testing in select countries.
To access Instants from the Instagram app, go to your DM inbox and look in the bottom-right corner for an icon or a stack of photos. After you post a photo, your friends can emoji react to it and send a reply to your DMs, but after they see it, the photo disappears for them. Instants also disappear after 24 hours, and they can’t be captured in screenshots or screen recordings.
However, your Instants will remain in an archive for you for up to a year, and you can reshare them as a recap to your Instagram Stories if you’d like. You can also undo sending an Instant right after you post it or delete it from your archive.
The Instants mobile app, which popped up in Italy and Spain in April, gives you “immediate access to the camera” and only requires an Instagram account, Instagram says. “Instants you share on the separate app will show up for friends on Instagram and vice versa. We’re trying this separate app out to see how our community uses it, and we’ll continue to evolve it as we learn more.”
Instagram, in its testing, has seen that people “tend to use Instants to share much more casual, much more authentic moments about their day,” according to Instagram boss Adam Mosseri. “And we know that this type of sharing of personal moments with friends is a core part of what makes Instagram Instagram, but we also know that a lot of people don’t really share a lot to their profile grids anymore.”
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