Scammers using Google Voice to target victims
This month we’re seeing increasing numbers of bad actors revisiting a Google Voice scam that was first reported in 2021 by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The aim is to take control of the victim’s Google Voice account, allowing the scammers to make fraudulent voice calls while hiding their identity via the victim’s Google Voice number
What is Google Voice?
Google Voice is a telephone service that provides a US phone number to Google Account and Google Workspace customers. The numbers provided by Google are private and not easily traceable, which makes them all the more appealing to bad actors. Google Voice works using VoIP technology, allowing users to make calls directly from a computer.
The service allows users to make voice and video calls, send text messages and record voicemails. Google Voice can be linked to any phone, which means that calls and texts to the Google Voice number can be redirected to the scammer’s phone once the bad actor has gained access.
With Google Voice the scammer’s identity is concealed making it harder for them to be caught.
How does the scam work?
Despite being in the FTC’s radar since 2021, the Google Voice scam is relatively unknown. The scam uses online selling platforms to engage with the targets directly. According to reports of the scam, there are several elements to the scam:
- Scammers will communicate directly with targets on sites such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist either as sellers or buyers, or in some cases, responding to missing pet ads.
- During the conversation, the scammer will inform the target that they are sending them a verification to protect the safety of the sale or to confirm their identity.
- The text message that is received is a verification from Google Voice. For those that fall victim to this scam, once they relay the verification code to the scammer, the scammer is then able to access their Google account.
Two-step verification is a process that most people are familiar with, and this tactic mimics the process. It is important that you never share verification codes with anyone, especially ones that you have not requested yourself. No legitimate service will ask you to share verification codes with them, nor send one without a request being made.
Once the scammer has access to the target’s Google account, they can either use the Google Voice number that is linked to the account or create one themselves. As they will have access to your Google account, scammers may also be able to access your personal information, such as bank information, that is linked to the account.
How do I protect myself from the Google Voice scam?
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to this scam, there are a couple actions you can take:
- Contact Google: Google has reporting mechanisms within its service through which you can report fraudulent activity. Google can also reclaim your number for you.
- Submit a report to the FTC: By submitting a report, the FTC will also help track down these scams, prevent the bad actors from targeting others and enable the FTC to make others aware of the scam.
- Monitor activity: If you think that you may have fallen victim to this scam, closely monitor your call logs and bank account statements for any fraudulent activity.
- Stay alert: Bad actors are becoming more sophisticated in how they operate, so it is important to remain on high alert for red flags when using online services where you are communicating with strangers.
It is best practice to never engage with unknown numbers and report phone numbers being used by scammers to your carrier. If you believe you are the victim of a scam, you can report it to your local police, state Attorney General’s office and the FTC.
Call-blocking apps, including those powered by TNS Call Guardian®, are also a great resource for reporting and blocking unwanted robocalls. Stay vigilant, share information about scams with others and be sure to check out our monthly Scam of the Month page updates.
Call Guardian is a registered trademark of Transaction Network Services, Inc.
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