Before you respond
Link verification code text you didn't request
A text naming Link can refer to the checkout service used with Stripe. Separate an unexpected code from a request by someone else to use it.
By Olevo · Reviewed October 1, 2026
Quick answer
An unexpected Link verification code text does not, by itself, establish a purchase or account takeover. Link says these texts can relate to a remembered device or a phone number entered by mistake. Keep the code private and check the service independently if you have an account.
This guide concerns the checkout service Link, rather than every message containing the word ‘link.’ A caller asking for the code to cancel a charge or fix an account is a separate warning sign. Do not read it back or send a screenshot containing it.
At a glance
A Link verification code is used by the checkout service to check identity. Receiving one unexpectedly and being asked to share one are different situations. The text alone cannot confirm a charge, a compromised account, or the identity of another person contacting you.
- Someone wants the code to cancel a purchase.
- A caller asks you to forward the entire text.
- A follow-up directs you to an unfamiliar sign-in page.
Keep the code private and reach Link through its official website or support.
Choose the check that matches your situation
Situation
A code arrives without a checkout
What it establishes
A code was sent; a charge is not established
Next step
Keep it private; review your account independently if needed
Situation
Someone asks you to read the code back
What it establishes
They want information used for account verification
Next step
Stop responding and use official support
Situation
You see an unfamiliar charge in your card account
What it establishes
The issuer's record needs investigation
Next step
Contact the card issuer through its app or card number
Why might Link text me when I didn't sign in?
Link's support page says it uses SMS or email when verifying identity on a new site or device. It also describes remembered devices and a number entered by mistake as possible explanations. You may not remember saving payment information during an earlier checkout. These explanations do not authenticate your individual message.
Make two separate checks: did you initiate a checkout or sign-in, and is anyone asking you to hand over the code? Leave a code you did not request unused. If a person follows up, end that conversation before investigating through a channel you choose yourself.
Check Link activity and remembered devices
Type link.com yourself and use its account or support links, instead of a link supplied with an unexpected message. Link's support guidance points to Activity for past purchases. Compare it with your own receipts and card account; do not rely on a text's claim that payment occurred.
If you want to end remembered sessions, Link documents this path: sign in independently, open Settings, scroll to Log Out, and choose ‘Log out of all devices.’ You will need to authenticate again the next time you use Link. Use official support if you cannot access the account or the controls differ.
If you already shared the code or entered information
Stop sending codes, including a second code someone says will undo the first. Tell Link support what happened through its official help site. Use the affected service's recovery instructions and review account activity from a trusted device. Save the message and time of the exchange without exposing the code to other people.
If you entered card details on an unfamiliar page or find an unauthorized charge, contact the card issuer directly. If you installed software, follow the device-access recovery guide as well. The useful next step depends on what you actually shared or installed.
What it may look like
Illustrative example
"Illustrative follow-up: We sent a Link code to cancel an order. Read it to our agent now."
Signs to slow down
- The caller says a code will reverse a payment.
- You are pressured to continue before reviewing your own account.
- You are told to hide the conversation or share another account's password.
What to do next
- Leave an unrequested code unused and private.
- Open Link independently to review activity if you have an account.
- Contact official Link support about repeated unexpected requests or access concerns.
- Contact your card issuer if its records show unfamiliar activity.
How to report it
- Use your phone's junk or spam reporting for suspicious messages.
- Report impersonation to Link through its official support site.
- Report fraud attempts at ReportFraud.ftc.gov; contact the issuer promptly for payment exposure.
How Olevo can help
Olevo can help review what a message or caller is asking you to do.
Redact the full code, login links, card details, and personal information first. Olevo cannot access Link sessions, confirm a transaction, browse the message's link, or recover an account.
Trusted sources
What Link by Stripe does at checkout
Stripe
Stripe describes Link as a checkout wallet for saved payment information and account verification.
Why Link sends an unexpected email or SMS
Link Support
Link describes new-site or device verification, remembered devices, mistaken phone numbers, and purchase activity.
Log out of Link on all devices
Link Support
Official instructions for ending remembered Link sessions through account Settings.
Why someone might ask for your verification code
Federal Trade Commission
Verification codes belong to the account holder; an incoming caller asking for one needs no reply.
Common questions
Why did I get a Link code if I don't remember having an account?
Link's support guidance describes remembered devices and a phone number entered by mistake. You may also have used Link during a previous checkout. The text alone does not establish an account takeover or charge. Keep it private and use official support if you need help.
Is every Link verification text a scam?
No. Link uses verification messages, but a familiar name or code does not authenticate a caller or follow-up request. Use a code only for the checkout or sign-in you independently initiated. Leave an unexpected one unused and never send it to someone who contacts you.
Can I send a Link code to cancel a payment?
Do not give an incoming caller or message sender your verification code. If you need to check a payment, review your own account and contact the merchant, Link support, or card issuer through an independent route. A request for a code is not proof of a charge.