I didn’t respond right away to a seller asking for my cell. About 6 days later, I checked if the item was still listed, but it was gone. So, I emailed them again to see if it was sold. They replied:
‘I asked you to email me your cell number, and I’ll call you back.’
I replied and asked if they wanted my number for security reasons, but they haven’t responded yet. Is this a scam?
Just a heads-up for everyone: since you’re posting here, you might get private messages from people pretending to be ‘experts’ who can help you get your money back if you’ve been scammed. They usually ask for a small fee upfront. We call them recovery scammers. Be careful and always get advice in the comments here, not in private messages.
Also, a reminder of this forum’s rules: no sharing private info like phone numbers or full names, keep things civil, and avoid posts about revenge scams or ‘scam baiting’.
If you see someone breaking the rules or notice any recovery scammers, use the report button! We check all reports. Let’s keep each other safe!
Sounds like a scam to me. They probably want your number to try something shady, like asking for an SMS code. If you’re worried, you could always get a second number just for online stuff. Keep it active with a little credit, and use it for things like this so you don’t risk your main number getting tied to scams.
Yeah, they could be trying to take over your number. Here’s how it usually works:
They ask for your cell number.
You give it to them.
They start a Google Voice request to take over your number.
They say, ‘I’m going to send you a code to verify.’
Google Voice sends you the code.
You give them the code, thinking it’s legit.
Boom, they’ve now taken over your number. It’s a popular scam.
I lost interest as soon as I saw ‘Craigslist’… 
That’s pretty quick for them to ask for your cell number. But honestly, lots of sellers want to skip endless texting or emails. Sometimes a quick call can tell if someone’s actually serious about buying.
Maybe, but not necessarily a scam. Some people just prefer talking on the phone, and not everyone’s a scammer. Believe it or not, some Craigslist transactions are legit! It’s possible they thought you might be the scammer instead.
