SMS Authentication Codes without a cell phone

[debodun]

Suddenly, Marketplace won't place my ads unless I send an SMS authentication code. I don't have a cell phone. I tried entering my landline number, but it didn't work. I tried looking for a solution online, but being an older person, I really didn't understand what I read. Any advice?

 

[maxseven]

Use a friend or relative's cell number and have them phone you with the code(s) they receive.

 

[debodun]

I had considered that, but if it's a scam, I don't want to compromise their phone number. Thanks for the idea, though. If I get desperate, I might do that.

 

[dg1261]

I assume you mean Facebook Marketplace? I don't use Facebook, but I believe Facebook supports TOTP Two-Factor-Authentication apps (e.g., Google Authenticator or Facebook's own Facebook Authenticator) in lieu of SMS, so Marketplace should be able to do the same. Most TOTP setup instructions will assume you're using a smartphone-based TOTP app, but there are identical apps (e.g., "WinAuth") for Windows as well, so you don't need a smartphone.

If that's what we're talking about, you should be able to go to your Facebook security settings and set up a third-party Authenticator app on your computer instead of a smartphone. Then, when Marketplace requires authentication, you simply open the third-party app and the 6-digit code to use will be right there, no phone required.