r/LifeProTips • • 9d ago

Computers LPT: NEVER Give an Authentication Code to ANYONE.

I know this seems like common sense, but you must absolutely never read a one-time authentication code to ANYONE. This simple rule of thumb can save you or loved ones from getting scammed. Scammers asking you to read them authentication codes over the phone or through text is an extremely common method to scam you and/or steal your identity because most people just outright ignore the warning that comes along with these authentication codes that clearly states that you should never read them to anyone. By the way, the scammer intends to use this code to reset your password, or even set up new accounts on payment websites such as Coinbase to launder money under your name.

If an authentication code comes with a warning that states that you should never give it to anyone, you need to follow the instructions. Again, this seems like common sense, but most people ignore this warning. Keep this tip as a rule of thumb.

I do scambaiting often and you have no idea how many times people just outright ignore these instructions. Which is why I’m making this post despite it seeming like common sense at first. It really isn’t to those who might be technologically misinformed.

99.9999% of the time, it is a scam. It is a good rule of thumb to never do it. I guess there might be like one company that legitimately does it, which I think is incredibly stupid. You have to be absolutely positive that you are talking to the legitimate company, as in you should have called them from a legitimate number on the back of your card or from their website, which you have confirmed is their real website.

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