Why would a scammer want my phone number?

How Do Scammers Get Your Phone Number? One of the most common ways scammers get your phone number is through the many data breaches and treasure troves of raw data found and sold on the dark web. Another way is by picking through your trash and grabbing an old bill with your phone number on it.

What can a scammer do with a verification code?

The scammer might use that number to rip off other people and conceal their identity. Sometimes these scammers are after a Google Voice verification code and other information about you. If they get enough of your information, they could pretend to be you to access your accounts or open new accounts in your name.

Why would someone send a code to my phone?

They tell you a story about how they need you to prove you are real person, or a legitimate seller, not a bot, and, that they are using a special phone service that requires that you give them the six-digit code number that will be played to you by an automated verification call you will receive from Google, or via a …

What are the dangers of giving someone your number?

Scammers can use your phone number to target you using phishing texts and robocalls, trying to trick you into giving up valuable information or money. They can also use your hijacked phone number to trick your friends and family into sharing passwords or sending money to your compromised number.

What can a hacker do with your phone number?

How hackers can use your number to get access to your personal information

• ‘Phishing’ for personal data. It’s common for hackers to send fake text messages to their targets in order to gain username and password information (this is known as phishing).
• Sending links to malicious apps.
• Two-factor authentication.

Why am I being sent verification codes?

Unsolicited verification codes indicate that someone is trying to log in to your Microsoft account but cannot pass the verification process. To make sure the login attempt is genuine, Microsoft sends you a verification code. Most likely, this is a phishing attempt aimed at gaining access to your Microsoft account.

What happens if your phone number is compromised?

A breached phone might be giving all its processing power over to the hacker’s shady applications. This can cause your phone to slow to a crawl. Unexpected freezing, crashes, and unexpected restarts can sometimes be symptoms. You notice strange activity on your other online accounts.