What area codes do spammers use

Area Codes and Spam Calls

Spam calls are a growing problem worldwide, with scammers and telemarketers using various tactics to trick people into answering their phone calls. One of the ways they do this is by using fake or spoofed caller ID information, including area codes that are similar to or the same as the recipient’s area code.

Common Area Codes Used by Spammers

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States, some of the most commonly spoofed area codes used by spammers include those associated with large cities or densely populated areas, such as 212 (New York), 312 (Chicago), 213 (Los Angeles), and 202 (Washington D.C.). Additionally, scammers may use area codes associated with popular vacation destinations, such as 808 (Hawaii) and 407 (Orlando).

Protecting Yourself from Spam Calls

There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from spam calls, including enabling caller ID and call blocking features on your phone, not answering calls from unknown numbers, and avoiding giving out personal information over the phone. Some mobile carriers also offer services that can help identify and block spam calls, and there are third-party apps available that can do the same. Being aware of common area codes used by spammers can also help you recognize potential spam calls and avoid answering them.

In summary, scammers and telemarketers often use fake or spoofed caller ID information, including area codes similar to or the same as the recipient’s area code, to trick people into answering their phone calls. Common area codes used by spammers include those associated with large cities, popular vacation destinations, and densely populated areas. Protecting yourself from spam calls involves enabling caller ID and call blocking features on your phone, avoiding answering calls from unknown numbers, and being aware of common area codes used by spammers.