If you’ve recently received a strange text from “Coinbase” about a withdrawal code, you’re not alone. The Coinbase withdrawal scam text is making the rounds again, and this time, scammers are getting more creative, even adding fake phone numbers to make their messages look more official. I got one of these texts myself this morning, and out of curiosity (and a little bit of mischief), I decided to call the number to see what would happen. Spoiler alert: it was 100% a scam.
The Scam Text I Received
Here’s exactly what the message said:
“Your Coinbase withdrawal code is: 611835. Please do not share this code with anyone. If you have not requested this, please call : (908) 975-9814. REG: CB77190.”
At first glance, it looks convincing. The text includes what seems like a security code, a “reference number,” and even a phone number to call. It’s designed to sound urgent and legitimate, just like an actual Coinbase alert. But here’s the catch: Coinbase never sends text messages with codes unless you’re actively logging in.
What Happened When I Called the Number
Since I knew it was fake, I decided to call the number, purely to see how these scammers operate. The man who answered had a fake British accent that sounded like something out of a bad movie. He pretended to be from Coinbase “Security Department” and asked for my name, the code from the text, and my “registered email address.”
I played along, gave him a phony name and random code, and acted like a clueless person for about 10–15 minutes. You could almost hear his frustration building as he tried to walk me through his fake “verification steps.” Eventually, he hung up.
I called back twice just to troll him, but by the third time, they had already figured it out and stopped answering.
How the Coinbase Withdrawal Scam Works
This scam is part of a larger phishing campaign targeting Coinbase users. Here’s the playbook:
- You get a fake withdrawal or verification text.
It includes a “withdrawal code” or a “security alert,” plus a phone number to call. - You call the number.
A scammer posing as a Coinbase rep picks up and asks for your name, email, code, or even access to your device under the guise of “verifying your account.” - They steal your login details.
Once they have your information, they can reset your password, bypass security, and drain your crypto.
These texts are crafted to create panic and make you act before you think. hit especially hard this summer.
How to Spot a Fake Coinbase Withdrawal Text
Here are some signs that scream “scam”:
- The text comes from a random U.S. number, not Coinbase’s official channel.
- It includes a phone number to call, which Coinbase never does.
- It mentions a “withdrawal code” or “suspicious activity” you didn’t initiate.
- The tone is urgent, trying to push you to react immediately.
Coinbase communicates security alerts only through their app and official emails, never by SMS.
What To Do If You Receive One
- Don’t call the number or click any links.
- Go directly to the Coinbase app and check for any alerts there.
- Report the scam by forwarding the text to 7726 (SPAM) in the U.S. or to your local carrier.
- If you shared any personal info, immediately change your password and enable two-factor authentication.
Conclusion
The Coinbase withdrawal text scam is a clever phishing attempt designed to prey on fear and confusion. These scammers know that crypto users are protective of their funds, and they use that panic to manipulate people into handing over their information.
I was lucky enough to recognize it instantly and to be honest, trolling the scammer was a bit satisfying, but not everyone spots it in time.
Always remember: Coinbase will never text or call you about suspicious activity or ask you to verify your account through a phone number. If you get a message like this, delete it, block the number, and move on.
Just like the Ncquickpassinvoice.com Scam, the Coinbase withdrawal scam text is a phishing attempt by scammers to get your personal and financial information.