Happened to me. I’ve had both. Companies that say they’ll never do ask for that and companies that use a texted code to verify you over the phone or even in a helper chat. (I think Apple might even do it but I haven’t used their help in awhile)
So when I got a call from a number that was spoofing a payment app’s info, i didn’t think much of it when they asked for a code. But as soon as I said it, I knew I fucked up since I didn’t initiate the call. They tried to buy $500 gift cards with it but because I realized it so quickly I was able to get it stopped by the real company and my bank.
I genuinely think I’m pretty good at recognizing scams and have a high “tech IQ” but they got me here.
I always tell people this story so they know it really can happen to anyone, no matter how good you might be. I don’t want anyone to be embarrassed about getting help when it happens to them.
I can’t find the podcast. Maybe someone else can post an article about this:
Several years ago, I listened to a podcast that interviewed a man in Chicago who was conducting a study. His team found people with a criminal history(I think maybe drug dealers?) and tell them they’ll get $1000 a month. No strings attached.
There were a few who didn’t use the money well, but most quit crime/dealing drugs entirely. They found steady work and some went back to school.
All they needed was an opportunity to feel financially safe, feed their kids, and pay rent.
Edit: I think I found it? Here’s an article on it. Some of my facts were wrong, but the idea was right overall.
Chicago Future Fund
The article also mentions another called the Stock Economic Empowerment Demonstration.
I’m not sure which I heard about but I suspect the interview was with Richard Wallace who is mentioned in the article. Some of his talking points sounded familiar.