Why the demand for my phone number?

[debodun]

I've been putting items on Marketplace again. I haven't done it in a while, but now when I get a response, it's always, "Give me your phone number." When I answer and ask why they want my phone number, the usual answers are, "So I know your not a spammer." or "I have to protect myself." Now how would giving out my phone numer prove I'm not a spammer or a homicidal maniac? People are either spamming me or extremely mistrustful. Why the upswing of mistrust?

 

[Murrmurr]

"Why the upswing of mistrust?"

Because Marketplace is loaded with scams. But Marketplace scammers always advertise things like cars and rentals, not nick-nacks and used books and such. You might mention that when an interested party asks for your number.... "I'm not selling a Corvette; it's a freaking cookie-jar."

 

[Tish]

@debodun maybe you should ask them for their phone number.

 

[oldaunt]

Odd. I sell a lot on Marketplace, mostly quilts, and have only once in 10 years been asked for my phone.

 

[Nathan]

@debodun , I hope you have an unlisted number, so people can't get your home address without your consent.

 

[Murrmurr]

@debodun , I hope you have an unlisted number, so people can't get your home address without your consent.

Yes, your service provider will do that for you - un-list you.

 

[Teacher Terry]

They ask for your phone number and then send you a text asking you to text something specific. It’s a scam and they are trying to get information from you. When someone does that just ignore them.

 

[Pepper]

@debodun , I hope you have an unlisted number, so people can't get your home address without your consent.

If anyone wants her home address, they can find it here on these pages. Heck, I know it. If I were still driving I'd have stopped in for coffee by now.

 

[Pepper]

Yes, your service provider will do that for you - un-list you.

Once it's been listed it can be found easily.

 

[Murrmurr]

Once it's been listed it can be found easily.

How easily?

 

[debodun]

Online - U.S. Phonebook or SpyDialer

 

[debodun]

I am also surprised at people on Facbook that don't put anything in their profiles. It's supposed to be social media!

 

[Murrmurr]

I am also surprised at people on Facbook that don't put anything in their profiles. It's supposed to be social media!

It's supposed to protect your privacy, too, but it can't.