The number sequence 1213 is not a valid country calling code recognized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). International country codes typically consist of one to three digits (e.g., +1 for the U.S. and Canada, +44 for the U.K.).
However, the confusion surrounding 1213 usually stems from two distinct, real-world numbers:
- US Area Code +1 213: The prestigious code for Downtown Los Angeles, California.
- Belarus’s Code +375: A common misidentification.
If you have received a call, or are attempting to dial a number using 1213, the information below clarifies the correct codes and the geographical region.
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The Most Likely Origin: The Los Angeles Area Code (213)
In the vast majority of cases in North America, users are mistaking the sequence +1 213 for the fictional or international code 1213.
Location: Los Angeles, California (Area Code 213)
- Country Code: +1 (United States)
- Area Code: 213 (Los Angeles County, CA)
- Major City: Downtown Los Angeles
- Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (PT)
The 213 area code is one of the original North American area codes, now geographically small but covering the dense, historic, and commercial core of the city. It operates as an overlay with area code 323.
How to Dial Los Angeles (Example)
To call a number in Downtown Los Angeles from another country, use the following format:
The Real International Code for Belarus
For reference, the call code often incorrectly linked to 1213 is for Belarus:
| Country | Actual Country Calling Code |
| Belarus | +375 |
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Warning: Calls from +1 (213) and Potential Scams
If you receive an unsolicited call from a number displaying the +1 (213) area code, it could be a legitimate call from a business in Downtown LA, but it is also a common number used by scammers engaging in “neighborhood spoofing.”
Common Scams Using the 213 Prefix
- Investment/Business Scams: Because 213 is associated with the commercial heart of L.A., scammers use it to pose as financial institutions, real estate agents, or investment firms to steal money or information.
- Verification Code Fraud: Scammers will spoof a 213 number and call, asking you to read back a verification code that was just texted to your phone. If you comply, they will use that code to hijack your Google Voice or banking accounts.
Security Steps:
- Do Not Answer Unknown 213 Calls: If the number is not in your contacts, let it go to voicemail.
- Verify Identity: If the caller claims to be from a company (e.g., your bank), hang up and call the company back using the official number listed on their website or your statement.
- Never Share Codes: Never, under any circumstances, read a verification code, PIN, or password to anyone who calls you, regardless of the number they display.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the time difference for the 213 area code?
The 213 area code is in the Pacific Time Zone (PT). It is typically 3 hours behind Eastern Time (ET) in the United States.
Does the 213 area code cover all of Los Angeles?
No. The 213 area code is one of the smallest and covers only Downtown Los Angeles and immediate surrounding inner suburbs (like Chinatown and Koreatown). The rest of Los Angeles County is covered by numerous other area codes, most notably 323 (which overlaps 213) and 310/424.
Is 1-800-772-1213 a 213 area code number?
No. 1-800-772-1213 is the official, toll-free number for the Social Security Administration (SSA). Scammers frequently spoof this 800 number to appear legitimate, but it has no geographical area code (like 213) associated with it.
