How does the code scam work on Facebook marketplace?

The code scam on Facebook Marketplace is a common scam where scammers trick buyers into sending them codes that allow them to hack into the buyer’s account. This scam typically starts with the scammer listing an item for sale, often at a very low price to attract attention. When a potential buyer expresses interest, the scammer will come up with a reason why they need the buyer to send them a code before they can complete the sale. This code allows the scammer to hack into the buyer’s account and steal personal information or money. Here is a more in-depth look at how this scam works and how to avoid it.

What is the code scam on Facebook Marketplace?

The Facebook Marketplace code scam involves a supposed seller asking an interested buyer to send them a code in order to complete a purchase on Marketplace. This code can come in many forms, but it’s usually a verification code sent via text message or email when you try to log into an account. The scammer will come up with some excuse as to why they need this code from you, when in reality, they are able to use it to hack into your Facebook or other accounts once you provide it to them.

Examples of what scammers may ask for

A Facebook login or authentication code sent via text or email

A two-factor authentication code
An account verification or reset code
A PayPal verification code

They may claim they need this code to “verify” your account, confirm you are a real person, release the funds from a sale, etc. But no matter what reason they give, their end goal is hacking into your accounts once you provide the code.

How the Facebook code scam actually works

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how scammers leverage the Facebook code scam:

The scammer posts an item for sale, usually at a price too good to be true.

They wait for interested buyers to reach out about purchasing the item.
Once a buyer expresses interest, the scammer responds with a reason they need the code, such as to verify the buyer’s identity or release the funds.
If the buyer provides the code, the scammer can now use it to log into their Facebook account, or other accounts linked to that phone number or email address.

From there, the scammer can steal personal information, money, or access connected accounts like PayPal or online banking.
Meanwhile, the scammer never had any intention of actually selling the item in the first place.

Real examples of the Facebook code scam

To help you identify this scam, here are some real life examples of the Facebook code scam from Marketplace:

“I listed my couch for $50 and got a message from someone saying they wanted to buy it. They then asked me to send them the code I got in a text message so they could “confirm I wasn’t a scammer.” When I refused, they said I must be trying to scam them instead.”
“I was selling my iPad for $200 and got an immediate response from a buyer asking for it. They said they would pay through PayPal but needed me to give them a verification code first that PayPal sent me. I almost did it but luckily realized it seemed fishy.”
“Someone claimed they wanted to buy all the items in my garage sale listing for $500. But first they asked me to send them a six digit “authentication code” Facebook had texted me to prove the sale was real. I sent them a fake code and they immediately blocked me.”

Key red flags of the Facebook code scam

Here are some common signs you may be dealing with a scammer trying to pull the code scam on Marketplace:

They express interest in buying your item immediately without negotiation.
They offer to pay through PayPal, Venmo, CashApp or another third party payment app.

They ask you to send a code that was texted, emailed, or otherwise sent to you personally.
They come up with an urgent reason they need the code right away.
The reason they need the code doesn’t completely make sense.

You cannot find their Facebook profile or it looks fake, sparse or recently made.
Their Marketplace account seems to have no previous history.
They are not willing to use Facebook’s payment protection for the purchase.

How to protect yourself from the code scam

Here are some tips to avoid getting tricked by the Facebook code scam on Marketplace:

Never send anyone a login code – Legitimate companies will never ask for these.
Avoid “too good to be true” deals – Very low prices often attract scammers.

Verify buyer profiles – Search for their name, look at friend list, photos, posts, etc.
Only use Facebook Pay – Never pay outside of Marketplace’s payment system.
Ask probing questions – See if their story adds up before agreeing to a sale.

Trust your instincts – Don’t ignore any gut feelings something seems “off.”
Report suspicious accounts – Notify Facebook of potential scams or fake accounts.

As long as you remain vigilant and don’t send codes or money to strangers online, you can avoid being the victim of the Facebook code scam on Marketplace.

What to do if you already sent a code

If you already made the mistake of providing a login code to a scammer, here are the steps to take immediately:

Change your Facebook password – This logs the scammer out.
Turn on two-factor authentication.

Remove any payment info saved on your account.
Check for any posts made on your timeline by the scammer.
Warn your Facebook friends of the scam in case the hacker targets them next.

Contact Facebook to report the account that scammed you.

Doing this quickly can help secure your accounts before the scammer gets too far. But your best bet is avoiding sending codes altogether when using Marketplace.

Reporting Facebook code scams

If you spot a code scam happening or fall victim to one, be sure to report it:

Report the scammer’s account to Facebook
Submit details to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
File a complaint with the FBI’s IC3 at ic3.gov

Warn your Facebook friends about current code scams

The more these scams get reported, the more vigilant Facebook will become at spotting and removing scam accounts quickly.

Code scam prevention tips

Here are a few final tips to keep in mind to avoid the Facebook code scam:

Never buy or sell outside of Marketplace’s official payment system
Don’t entertain offers significantly above or below market value
Check profiles carefully looking for signs of fake accounts

Ask yourself why someone would need a personal code from you
Turn on login approvals in Facebook’s security settings
Be extra wary when selling hot ticket or rare items

Staying cautious, trusting your gut, and using common sense are your best defenses. With vigilance, you can spot code scams before they target you on Marketplace.

Conclusion

The Facebook code scam is a common trick scammers use to gain access to your accounts by convincing you to hand over a verification or login code. They lure victims in with hot ticket sale items, then come up with elaborate stories to send codes that let them hijack your accounts. Protect yourself by learning the red flags, understanding how the scam works, and never sending codes or personal info to strangers. Report any scams you spot to keep other Marketplace users safe. Stay alert and trust your instincts to avoid this and other Facebook Marketplace scams.