Someone asked for the code sent to my phone: is it a scam?
Banks, email and messaging apps send one-time codes to prove it is really you. Scammers try to log in to your account, then trick you into giving them the code.
Check your message free ↓What it can look like
Hi, I sent you a 6-digit code by mistake. Could you send it back to me please? It's urgent.
A made-up example. Real messages vary.
The warning signs
- Anyone asking for a code that was just sent to your phone.
- A friend's account asking for a code "sent by mistake". Their account may already have been taken over.
- A caller from "your bank" asking you to read out a code to cancel a payment.
What to do
- Never share a code with anyone, whoever they say they are.
- Read the code message carefully. It usually says what the code is for and not to share it.
- If you shared a code, change that account's password straight away and contact the company. If it was a bank code, call your bank.
Already paid or shared your details?
- Call your bank straight away, using the number on your card.
- Change any passwords you shared, starting with your email.
- Report it (see below).
- Tell someone you trust. Scams catch careful people too.
United Kingdom
Report fraud at reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101. Forward scam texts to 7726 and scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. Call 159 to reach most UK banks.
United States
Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Forward scam texts to 7726.
Canada
Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre on 1-888-495-8501. Forward scam texts to 7726.
Australia
Report it at scamwatch.gov.au. If you lost money, report it to the police at cyber.gov.au and call IDCARE on 1800 595 160 for free help.
Anywhere else
Report it to your local police or your national fraud reporting service.
Other common scams
- Parcel delivery texts
- Your bank's "fraud team" calls
- Tax refunds, fines and road tolls
- Celebrity investment adverts
- "Hi Mum, I've got a new number"
- A loved one's voice on the phone
- Fake shops and too-good deals
- Computer help calls and pop-ups
- Online friends who talk about money
- Calls from the "police" asking for money
- Power or water cut-off messages
This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. Reporting details were checked on 26 September 2026. Another AI Lie is not linked to the organisations named. Example messages are made up.