Everyday decision 05 of 10
Share less: codes, IDs, and details a task doesn't need
Most tasks need less than they ask for. This page covers what to keep to yourself, starting with a verification code, and what to do if you already shared it.
Example 01
A buyer asked for the code sent to your phone?
Don't share it. A real buyer never needs a code sent to your phone. That code is how someone sets up an account on your number, often a Google Voice number they can use to scam other people.
Right now
Tap each step as you do it.
All three done.
If you already shared the code
- Change your Google account password and turn on two-step verification.
- Take your number back from any Google Voice account that was set up with it. Go to voice.google.com and follow the steps to reclaim a number linked to another account.
- Report it to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov, and report the buyer in the marketplace app.
The pattern
Sellers expect buyers to be a little cautious, so “I just want to make sure you're real” sounds reasonable. That's why it works.
The tell is where the code goes: your phone. A code sent to your phone proves something to a service, not to a buyer. When someone asks you to read it back, they're using your number to verify an account they control. The couch was never the point.
Some versions add a little pressure, like “Lots of people are interested, I need to confirm first.” A code request plus pressure is the pattern.
What Agency Check shows
If your agent is handling replies for you, say “Check this first.”
Agency Check never needs the code itself. When your agent shares the text, the digits are removed before anything is checked.
“Hi! Still have the couch? Before I come get it I need to make sure you're real. I'm sending a 6-digit code to your phone, just tell me what it is.”
- “Prove you're real”
- Someone is asking for a code, password, or card number. Codes like this can open or take over an account.
- The text that came with the code says not to share it
Agency Check reviewed what you shared. You decide what happens next.
What this check looks at
When you're about to share, send or submit something, Agency Check points out:
- Anyone asking for a code, password, card number or Social Security number
- A service's own text saying “don't share this”
- A request for your ID before there's a real offer
- Optional fields on a form that are filled in with sensitive details, like an SSN, a license number, medical history or income
- Defaults that share more than you'd pick, like a photo release “with full name”
When it says Pause and verify: always, when someone asks for a code, password or card number. For forms and defaults, it lists what's optional so you can submit only what's required.
What it never does: store or pass along a code, submit anything, or decide for you. It never gives a score or calls anything safe.
Coming soon to Muse and any agent chat
How to use it
Before your agent acts, say it out loud or type it. Agency Check reviews what you shared and hands back one Decision Card.
See how Agency Check works“Check this first. The buyer wants the code that was just texted to me.”
Questions
Why would a buyer want my verification code?
To set up an account, often a Google Voice number, tied to your phone number. They can then use that number to scam other people while it looks like it's yours.
Can I share just part of the code?
No. Don't share any of it. Nobody legitimate needs any part of a code that was sent to you.
Is it a scam if they want to “verify I'm real”?
Verification that goes through your phone number is a red flag. A real buyer can see your listing, message you in the app, and meet you. That's verification enough.
What if my agent already sent the code?
Follow the “If you already shared the code” steps above today. Then tell your agent never to share verification codes. In Muse, a standing instruction like “Never share verification codes” helps.
Other everyday decisions
Sources
Frameworks behind this check
Research and guidance
- AARP, “How to Avoid Google Voice Scams When Selling Online”aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/google-voice-scams/
Last reviewed September 27, 2026. Agency Check is an independent tool from Cyber Strategy Institute, built on its open frameworks and coming soon to Muse and any agent chat. Muse is a trademark of Meta Platforms, Inc.All ten checks on the Agency Check hub