The Tinder Verification Code scam is one of the worst scams that you can fall prey to. It is possibly the most dangerous scam that anyone could easily to fall prey to, simply because of how believable it is, plus its potential to cause the biggest privacy and financial damage.

How does Tinder verification text scam work?

Already matched with someone? A real human match will message you, and engage with you in a real conversation that can last a few days.

When there seem to be real chemistry going on, the profile will suddenly ask you for a favor, to receive verification code.

In a similar account on reddit, person may say something like this. "Hey, my phone isn't working to receive verification codes. Can I quickly use your number? I'll send the code to you, give me the code when you get it."

What happens after you send the verification code

Here's the scary part. You did not even realize that the verification code was for your own Tinder, Facebook, or even Bank account.

The scammer now has access to your Tinder, Facebook or Bank account through phone number login. The worst of all, you were the one who gave him access.

Tinder verification code text scam works on the fact that the victim is completely unsuspecting and wants to provide help and favor.

What is the potential damage?

Similar to the phone number scam, the verification code scam also causes you to lose and give up personal information that can be used to steal money or more private information.

You could potentially lose:

  1. Private information like social security numbers
  2. Bank account or credit card numbers
  3. Your life's savings

How to prevent against the Tinder Verification code scam?

  1. Never give out your real numner
  2. Never agree to help receive verification codes
  3. Use a fake number with Tinder in the first place (so verification codes don't even work!)

See also: Should i use my real phone number with Tinder?

Are there variants of such scams asking for phone numbers or verification codes?

There is one common variant that uses completely automated 'phishing' messages instead of real text exchanges.

Instead having a human sending a message to convince the person help send a verification code, some scammers will simply send links that are highly effective to perform the same purpose for 'phish' for phone numbers and other personal information.

For example, the link could open in a fake Tinder page that asks you to re-enter your personal details and phone number before you are 'safe' to proceed to see the actual page.

Commentary: Why are scams found on tinder?

Tinder dating has become a very popular way for people to meet. With a total of about 20 billion users on its platform, it is no surprise that it is a perfect playground for scammers.

Scams are also very common on other platforms such as Craigslist.

Sometimes, scams can even reach you without you participating on any website or platforms, such as SMS scams. In those cases, using a second phone number can reduce your likelihood of falling prey to such a scam.