In an age of constant connectivity, receiving a call or text from an unfamiliar number is a daily occurrence. However, when a number appears with an unusual prefix like the 054 area code, it can cause confusion and concern. If you’ve seen this number, it’s important to understand where it comes from and how to handle it, as it does not operate like a standard US area code.
Is 054 a US Area Code?
First and foremost, the 054 area code is not a valid area code within the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). This means no city, state, or region in the United States, Canada, or the Caribbean uses 054 as its designated three-digit code. Any search for a US location for this code will come up empty.
The International Connection: Where 054 Originates
The “054” prefix is commonly used as a mobile phone identifier in several countries, most notably:
- Saudi Arabia: It is a widely used prefix for mobile numbers belonging to the Saudi Telecom Company (STC). A call from Saudi Arabia would display as +966 54…, but the “0” is often used when dialing domestically within that country.
- Israel: The prefix is also used for mobile numbers in Israel, formerly associated with the provider Orange (now Partner Communications).1
When you see a call from a number beginning with these digits, it is an international call originating from outside the United States.
Area Codes vs. Short Codes: Clearing the Confusion
It’s crucial to distinguish between different types of phone numbers to understand what you’re seeing. The term short code 054 area code mixes several different concepts.
- Area Codes: In the US, these are three-digit numbers (like 212 or 310) assigned to specific geographic regions.2
- Short Codes: These are 5 or 6-digit numbers (like 58083) that businesses use to send and receive text messages for things like promotions, appointment reminders, or verification alerts. They are not used for voice calls.
The prefix “054” is neither a US area code nor a short code. It is an indicator of an international mobile phone line.
Why Are You Receiving Calls from an 054 Number?
While it’s possible the call is from a friend, relative, or business contact overseas, unsolicited calls from international numbers are frequently linked to scams. Be aware of the following possibilities:
- “Wangiri” or One-Ring Scam: This is a common tactic where scammers call from an international number and hang up after a single ring.3 They bait you into calling back out of curiosity. When you do, you are connected to a premium-rate number that charges exorbitant fees for every minute you stay on the line.
- WhatsApp and Messaging Scams: Scammers use international numbers to contact people on messaging apps like WhatsApp. They might engage in phishing by sending malicious links or attempt romance and investment scams.
- Verification Code Scams: You might receive an unsolicited message with a verification code for an account you don’t own, as a scammer attempts to create a fraudulent account using your phone number.
How to Handle These Calls Safely
If you receive an unexpected call or message from a number with a 054 prefix, exercise extreme caution.
- Do Not Answer: If you do not recognize the number, let the call go to voicemail. A legitimate caller will leave a message explaining their reason for contacting you.
- Never Call Back: Do not return a missed call from an unknown international number. This is the surest way to protect yourself from the one-ring scam.
- Do Not Share Information: Never provide any personal, financial, or account information to an unsolicited caller or in a text message.
- Block and Report: Use your phone’s built-in features to block the number. You can also report the number as spam or a scam within apps like WhatsApp.
By understanding that the 054 area code is an international prefix and not a domestic number, you can better identify potential risks and protect yourself from unwanted and potentially costly scams.
