Receiving an unexpected Facebook code can be confusing and concerning. There are a few legitimate reasons why someone might send you a code, but often it’s part of a scam. Here’s an overview of why you might receive a Facebook code and what you should do.
What is a Facebook Code?
A Facebook code is a 6-digit numerical code that Facebook sends via text or email. Facebook uses codes for the following purposes:
- Two-factor authentication – For extra security when logging in, Facebook can require you to enter a code along with your password.
- Account recovery – If you get locked out of your account, Facebook will send a code to help verify your identity and regain access.
- Account confirmation – When creating a new Facebook account, you may need to enter a confirmation code.
The code is randomly generated and is only valid for a short time, usually 10-30 minutes. If you receive an unexpected code, it could mean someone else is trying to access your account or create an account using your information.
Legitimate Reasons for Receiving a Code
There are a few legitimate reasons why someone might intentionally send you a Facebook code:
- You requested it – If you proactively went through Facebook’s account recovery process, you would receive a code to verify your identity.
- Account security check – Facebook may surprise you with a login code from time to time as a security check, especially if you usually don’t use two-factor authentication.
- New login location – If Facebook notices your account being accessed from a new device or unfamiliar location, it may require a code as a precaution.
- Shared access – If you intentionally grant someone else access to your Facebook account, you could send them a login code to get in when needed.
In these situations, you or Facebook has initiated the code, so it is expected. However, if you’re totally surprised to receive a code out of the blue, that’s a red flag.
Suspicious Reasons for Receiving a Code
Here are some sketchy reasons why an unexpected Facebook code might show up:
- Hacking attempt – A scammer could be trying random codes to break into your account. When they generate a valid code, Facebook will send it to you.
- Phishing scam – A scammer sends you a fake “security alert” asking you to submit the code they sent. If you comply, you give them access.
- Fake account – A scammer may be trying to create a fake account using your phone number or email for verification.
- Account takeover – If your account was already hacked, the hacker could initiate a password reset to lock you out while retaining their own access.
If you receive an unexpected code out of nowhere, it’s wise to be skeptical instead of immediately entering it.
What to Do if You Get an Unexpected Facebook Code
If a Facebook code shows up unprompted, here are some best practices:
- Don’t enter the code! Avoid submitting it anywhere the first time you receive it.
- Log in to Facebook directly and check for anything suspicious. Look for unknown login locations, new friend requests, strange posts or messages, etc.
- Consider changing your password if you see any unusual activity.
- Check the sending number/email. Facebook codes come from official channels. Anything else is a red flag.
- Forward phishing messages to [email protected] and delete them.
- If you feel your account has been compromised, use Facebook’s reporting tools to lock it down.
- Run a virus scan on your devices in case of malware.
- Set up two-factor authentication if you haven’t already.
With caution, you can avoid falling victim to any scam attempts involving unexpected Facebook codes.
When to Actually Enter the Code
Of course, there are times when you do need to enter the code into Facebook:
- You requested it for legitimate account recovery.
- Facebook sends it unexpectedly, but you verified there’s no strange account activity.
- You recognize the sender’s number/email as official Facebook channels.
- You deliberately gave someone temporary access to your account.
The code should only be used on the real Facebook website or app. Anywhere else is unsafe.
How Scammers Get Your Code
For scammers to pull off their tricks, they first need access to your Facebook codes. Here’s how they could get them:
- Phishing your info – You enter your phone/email on a fake Facebook login page.
- Data breaches – Your contact info gets leaked through website hacks.
- Social engineering – The scammer contacts Facebook acting as you and gets them to send a code.
- SIM swapping – They transfer your phone number to a new SIM card they control.
- Malware – Spyware infects your device and steals codes from Facebook emails/texts.
The more private you keep your personal info, the lower your risk. Beware of what links you click and apps you download to avoid phishing and malware.
Facebook Code Scams
Once scammers acquire a code linked to your account, here are some sneaky ways they might use it:
Account Takeover
By initiating a password reset with your email or phone number, the code allows them to login and lock you out. They can then use your account however they please.
Phishing for Access
A scammer sends you an urgent fake message asking you to submit the verification code they sent. If you comply, you inadvertently give them access.
Fake Account Creation
Your phone/email allows a scammer to bypass some identity checks when creating a fake account. This is often used for spreading spam or scams.
Ads and Posting Scams
By gaining access to your account, scammers can use your identity to run ads or spread viral posts that link to outside scams or malware.
Spreading Malware
A compromised account lets them message your friends with dangerous links disguised as funny videos, articles, or offers.
Requesting Money
Using your account, they can message your Facebook friends posing as you and ask them to send money or gift cards.
How to Stay Secure
Here are some tips to keep your account and information safe from Facebook code scams:
- Use two-factor authentication and strong passwords.
- Don’t click suspicious links or download software from unknown sources.
- Watch out for fake Facebook login pages and urgent messages asking for your code.
- Keep your login info private and use privacy settings on your account.
- Be skeptical of unexpected codes and check your account for unusual activity.
- Avoid entering any codes you receive into unfamiliar websites or apps.
- Consider using a password manager so you don’t repeat passwords between sites.
- Set up login alerts to notify you of logins from new devices.
Staying vigilant goes a long way in protecting yourself online. If your account does become compromised, act quickly to secure it and determine the extent of the breach.
What Facebook is Doing About Scams
Facebook employs a few measures to combat scams involving their platform and codes:
- Account recovery requires providing additional proof of identity beyond just a code.
- Codes are only valid briefly and one-time use.
- Users can report phishing content and fake accounts.
- Facebook takes legal action against spam & scam operations.
- AI helps identify suspicious activity like unusual logins or mass messaging.
However, scammers are constantly evolving their techniques, so users need to remain cautious and help protect themselves.
The Takeaway
Receiving a Facebook code out of the blue can be disconcerting, but there are a few potential reasons it happens. While it may be legit, unexpected codes often signal an attempt at hacking, phishing, or identity theft.
The safest bet is to avoid entering any codes you aren’t expecting. Check for suspicious account activity and be wary of any urgent pleas to submit the code. With caution, you can avoid compromising your account, losing access, or falling victim to a scam.
Stay alert online and treat all unprompted codes and messages asking for personal information with skepticism. This will go a long way in keeping your accounts and identity secure.