We live in an era of rampant cybercrime, with many technology-related deceptions, conspiracies and scams. But the Google Voice scam is a threat that doesn’t get discussed enough, which is why we’re exposing it.

This multi-step scheme targets unsuspecting individuals, taking advantage of the legality of Google's free calling and texting services to hijack phone numbers for criminal purposes. If you want to protect yourself in the digital environment, you need to understand the mechanics of this scam and its damaging consequences.

How this scam works The Google Voice scam starts with a seemingly innocent touchpoint. Scammers often target victims through online marketplaces, classified sites or social media (where people often list their phone numbers).

Scammers pose as interested buyers and build rapport over a period of time, long enough to build trust. Once they do, they introduce a hypothetical question.

Most of the time, people who try this scam claim that they are having some issues receiving calls and texts, and then offer Google Voice as a workaround to complete the transaction. The scammer then initiates the setup of a new Google Voice number, but they link it to the victim's existing phone number. As part of the verification process, Google sends a unique code to the victim's phone.

The goal of scammers is to obtain that verification code so they can pretend to be confused by Google Voice, act like they're technically incompetent, or pretend they didn't receive the verification code and ask the victim to read it aloud. Once completed, the scammer completes the Google Voice setup and successfully hijacks the victim's phone number.

More scam scenarios Online marketplaces aren't the only way scammers find victims, some other popular tactics include:

The "wrong number" strategy. Scammers intentionally text or call you, pretending that they accidentally contacted the wrong person. They have a friendly conversation, build trust, and then eventually ask for help with what they call a Google Voice "problem." "Job Opportunities" Tips. They pose as a recruiter or employer interested in hiring you and specifically target people looking for remote jobs. They will then claim that a "technical requirement" for the job requires you to set up Google Voice with your number. "Technical Support" Scam. In this case, the scammer pretends to be a technical support agent from a company like Apple or Microsoft and claims there is a problem with your account. They'll say they need to send you a verification code and walk you through setting up Google Voice for "secure communication." The “overseas buyer” perspective. Another popular tactic these scammers like to use is claiming to be from another country or purchasing from abroad. Presumably, this explains why they may experience communication difficulties and need to use different services. Why is this dangerous? While it may not seem like it at first glance, Google Voice number scams can cause significant losses. If scammers know your phone number, they can do a lot of damage:

Identity theft. By impersonating the victim, scammers can further defraud, tricking friends, family or business contacts into sending money and revealing personal information. Covert criminal activity. Fake Google Voice numbers provide an untraceable veil for scammers' criminal activities, including illegal sales, harassment, or other fraudulent activity. Reputation damaged. If the scammer does use the number for criminal activity, the victim may be falsely implicated in their actions and have their phone number associated with potentially damaging or criminal charges. Targeted account hacking. If you use your phone number for password reset or two-factor authentication, scammers may try to hijack other high-value accounts you have. For example, they can reset your email or bank account password. Blackmail attempt. In less common but more serious cases, scammers may try to extort money from victims by threatening to post embarrassing messages or take harmful actions if they don't pay. How to protect yourself Google Voice is a safe and reliable service if used correctly, and just because scammers have found ways to take advantage of it doesn't mean you shouldn't use it. Instead, you need to maintain a level of skepticism and awareness when dealing with this service so you can fight off scammers and protect yourself.

You need to remember the following:

Never share verification codes. A good rule of thumb is to treat your verification codes like passwords - you are the only one who should know them. Never trust anyone who asks you to read your code aloud. Legitimate companies, including Google, will never ask you to read a verification code over the phone, text message, or email. Treat your code like your password. Keep your phone number safe. If possible, try not to share your phone number on any kind of public listing. But if you use an online sales platform and need to list numbers, you should consider using a dedicated "burn" number. Educate yourself and others. Because scams are constantly evolving, it’s important to stay up to date on common scam tactics. Share this knowledge with friends and family, especially those who are less tech-savvy. final thoughts Scammers are ruthless and no one is immune to their ever-evolving tactics. Even if you're familiar with older versions of Google Voice scams, new variations are popping up. Staying informed and paying attention to the basics of scams is key.