about > help > phone authentication
In some situations, users may be required to set up a craigslist user account (or log in to an existing account) to submit new posts. In addition, a valid working phone number may be required so that we can verify your account. Phone authorization is used to help us enforce our terms of use, and to keep the number of accounts users create to a minimum, thereby preventing spam and overposting.
Terms of use violations will be subject to account holds and blacklisting of the phone number used to verify the account.
How does it work?
In the authentication process, you will be prompted to enter your phone number. Shortly after, you will receive an automated phone call or text message (SMS) that contains an authorization code. Enter this code on the next page of the process, and your account will be verified.
What if I type my phone number incorrectly?
If you enter the wrong phone number, press "try again" after five minutes and enter the correct number.
Please note:
- You may only try to call a phone number once every five minutes.
- You may only enter the code five times.
- You may only try three phone numbers per account every twelve hours.
- You may only receive three calls per account every twelve hours.
Prohibited numbers:
Craigslist does not allow the following numbers to be used:
- Phone numbers from outside the U.S. or Canada
- Toll-free numbers (area codes 800, 877)
- Some Voice over IP phone numbers: (VoIP- includes Cricket, MetroPCS)
- Blacklisted phone numbers
What if my phone number is already in use?
If you receive an error message that your phone number is already in use, please be advised that phone numbers may be unlinked from accounts in good standing 90 days after authentication. Craigslist reserves the right to refuse unlinking of a phone number from a held account.
Problems? Let us know.
Still have questions? try our help desk discussion forum or send us a note.