Area Codes Linked to Scams

Beware: Area Codes That Signal Scam Calls.

In an era where technology is both a boon and a bane, phone scams have become an increasingly common nuisance. Scammers have adapted their tactics over the years, shifting from the notorious 900 numbers to more deceptive methods. Understanding the area codes associated with scam calls can be your first line of defense in protecting yourself from fraud. Here’s what you need to know about these deceptive digits.

The Evolution of Scam Calls

Once upon a time, scam callers relied heavily on the 900 number, a prefix that quickly gained notoriety. As public awareness grew, the effectiveness of this tactic waned. Scammers, ever adaptable, began to employ more subtle and insidious methods to catch unsuspecting victims off guard. Now, scam phone numbers often come from a variety of area codes, many of which may look familiar or benign at first glance.

The 809 Area Code

One particularly treacherous area code is 809. While it may appear to be a regular long-distance number, it actually originates from the Caribbean. Calls from this area code can result in exorbitant charges, as they are often part of a phone scam designed to exploit international calling rates. If you receive a call from the 809 area code and do not recognize the number, it's best to avoid answering or returning the call.

The 473 Area Code

Another area code to be wary of is 473. At first glance, it may seem like a domestic number, but it is, in fact, the area code for the island of Grenada. Scammers use this to their advantage, tricking people into thinking they are receiving a call from within the United States. Similar to the 809 scam, answering or returning a call from this area code can lead to costly international charges.

Other Area Codes to Be Cautious Of

While 809 and 473 are among the most commonly used by scammers, there are other area codes that should raise red flags:

• 284: This is the area code for the British Virgin Islands. Like the 809 and 473 codes, it is often used in phone scams to mask international charges.

• 649: This area code belongs to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Calls from this area code can also result in unexpected charges.

• 876: Originating from Jamaica, this area code is frequently used in scams that involve lottery winnings or inheritance schemes.

Protecting Yourself from Phone Scams

To safeguard yourself against phone scams, consider the following tips:

1. Do Not Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers: If you receive a call from an unfamiliar number, especially one with an area code you don’t recognize, let it go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will leave a message.
   

2. Verify the Caller: If you do answer and the caller claims to be from a reputable organization, hang up and call the organization back using a verified number.
   

3. Be Skeptical of Urgent Requests: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. Take your time to verify the legitimacy of the call.
   

4. Use Call-Blocking Features: Many smartphones and carriers offer call-blocking features that can help filter out known scam numbers.

Conclusion

Scammers are constantly evolving their methods, but by staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself from falling victim to their schemes. Recognizing suspicious area codes is a crucial step in this process. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always safer to err on the side of caution.

by Belle Webb | Profile

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