In recent years, there has been an increase in scammers and fraudulent activities on Facebook Marketplace. As a result, many legitimate buyers and sellers have started asking each other to provide a verification code before completing transactions on Marketplace.
There are a few key reasons why verification codes are being requested:
To confirm identity
Asking for a verification code is a way for buyers and sellers to confirm each other’s identities. The code is usually sent to the person’s phone number or email associated with their Facebook account. Entering the correct code proves that the person has access to that account. This helps avoid situations where someone is impersonating the buyer or seller.
To avoid scams
Scammers often try to complete fake transactions on Marketplace to either steal money or goods from unsuspecting users. A common technique is for the scammer to send a fake payment confirmation. Asking for a verification code before providing any money or shipping the item ensures the other person actually controls their account and is not a scammer.
To prove seriousness
In some cases, buyers or sellers may ask for a verification code even if they do not necessarily doubt the other’s identity. This is done to confirm the person is serious and committed to completing the transaction. If someone refuses to provide a code, it may indicate they are not genuinely interested in buying or selling the item.
Common types of verification codes requested
There are a few different types of verification codes people may ask for on Marketplace:
SMS code
This is a 6-digit numeric code sent via text message to the person’s phone number linked to their Facebook account. It expires shortly after being sent. Entering it proves access to the linked phone number.
Email code
A 6-digit numeric code sent to the email associated with the person’s Facebook account. Like the SMS code, it expires quickly after receipt. Entering it verifies that email address.
2-factor authentication code
For users who have 2-factor authentication enabled on their Facebook account, their verification code may be requested. This is a 6-7 digit rotating code generated by a 2FA app like Google Authenticator. It continually changes every 30 seconds.
How to request a verification code
If you want to request a verification code from someone on Marketplace, here are some tips:
Ask politely
Phrase the request politely, especially if it is early in the conversation. For example, “Would you mind sending me a verification code so I can confirm you are the account owner?” Avoid demanding it.
Explain why you need it
Let the person know it is purely for identity confirmation and to prevent any scams. Assure them the code will not compromise their account security in any way.
Be willing to provide your own code
Offer to send your own verification code as well, so both parties can confirm each other’s identities. Never share your full password though.
Send the code through Facebook Messenger
Ask them to send a screenshot of the code through Messenger instead of dictating it aloud. This keeps the sensitive code private.
Do not overuse requests
Only ask for a code if you have real concerns about identity or scam risks. Do not overuse code requests or people will ignore them.
Valid reasons someone may refuse to provide a code
There are some valid reasons why a seller or buyer may refuse to send a verification code:
Privacy concerns
They may not feel comfortable proving account ownership to a stranger. The code reveals they control the account.
Security concerns
They may worry the code could be abused, even though it cannot directly access their account or password.
Too much hassle
Obtaining the code requires extra steps they may not wish to take for a casual transaction.
No cell phone access
If the code can only be sent via SMS, they may not have a phone readily available.
Prefer other confirmation
They may be willing to confirm their identity through a different method, like a photo ID or social media profile.
What to do if someone refuses to provide a verification code
If the other Marketplace user will not send a verification code, here are some options:
Politely end the transaction
You can explain that without the code you do not feel comfortable completing the sale or purchase. Then politely end the conversation.
Suggest alternate identity confirmation
Propose another way for them to confirm their account ownership, like sending a photo ID with the account username written on it.
Proceed with caution
If you still wish to proceed, make sure to use PayPal Goods and Services, avoid wire transfers, and ship to confirmed addresses only. Other anti-scam precautions are also advised.
Report suspicious behavior
If the refusal seems suspicious, you can report the account to Facebook. They may investigate potentially fraudulent activity.
Block the account
For very suspicious situations, or repeated refusals, you can simply block the account and cease all contact. This prevents any potential future scam risks.
Tips for safely buying and selling with verification codes
Here are some tips to enhance safety when using verification codes on Marketplace:
- Only do transactions with established Facebook accounts that have good ratings and reviews.
- Avoid new users with minimal account history and no connections.
- Never send your own password or full 2FA code to anyone.
- Beware of any account refusing to send reasonable identity confirmation.
- Never send money or ship items before confirming the other person’s identity.
- Be wary of last minute requests to divert payments or shipments.
- Report suspicious activities and users to Facebook promptly.
Example scenarios
Here are some examples of how verification code requests and responses might play out on Marketplace:
Buying scenario
Buyer: Hi! I’m interested in buying the bike you have listed. Are you able to send me a verification code so I can confirm I’m dealing with the real account owner before we complete the transaction?
Seller: Sure, that’s understandable! Let me generate a code and I’ll send it over Facebook Messenger. I’ll also need you to send me a code too for my own verification before we meet up.
Buyer: Sounds good, thanks for understanding! Here is my code – please keep it private. I’ll wait for yours as well.
Selling scenario
Seller: Hello, glad you’re interested in the fridge. Can you provide a verification code so I can confirm I’m speaking with the actual interested buyer? There are so many scams lately so I just want to be extra careful.
Buyer: I’d really prefer not to send that sensitive info to someone I don’t know. I totally get you wanting to avoid scams though. Would you be okay with me sending a photo of my driver’s license instead so you can see my identity?
Seller: Sure no problem, a license photo works too! I can also provide mine if you’d like. Let’s do that exchange over Facebook Messenger before moving forward.
Refusal scenario
Buyer: I’m interested in purchasing your Marketplace item. Please send me a verification code so I know I’m dealing with the actual account holder before paying.
Seller: Sorry I’m not comfortable providing that. I don’t know you at all and don’t want to compromise my account security. I suggest we end the transaction if that code is required on your end. Have a good one!
Conclusion
Asking for and providing verification codes is becoming a common practice on Facebook Marketplace as users attempt to avoid the many scams that now occur. There are valid reasons both to request and refuse these codes during a transaction. The important things are to keep codes private, have alternatives available if someone declines, and use caution when dealing with unverified accounts. With proper precautions, verification codes can help enhance trust and safety for everyone using Marketplace.