In an era of endless spam calls and digital scams, receiving a call from an unfamiliar area code can be cause for concern. If you’ve seen the 245 area code pop up on your caller ID, you might be wondering where it’s from and whether you should answer. The truth behind this number is simpler, and more important, than you might think.
Is 245 a US Area Code?
First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that there is no 245 area code within the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). This means that no city, state, or region in the United States, Canada, or the Caribbean uses this three-digit prefix for phone numbers. If you are looking for information on the 245 area code because you believe it to be a domestic call, you can rest assured that it is not.
The Truth: 245 is a Country Code
The number 245 is not an area code but is, in fact, the country code for Guinea-Bissau, a nation located on the Atlantic coast of West Africa. When you see a call initiated with “+245” on your phone, it signifies that the call is originating from that country. This is a critical distinction, as answering or returning calls to international numbers can have significant and unexpected consequences.
Potential Scams Associated with International Calls
Scammers frequently use international numbers from various countries to perpetrate fraud. One of the most common schemes associated with calls from unfamiliar country codes is the “One-Ring” or “Wangiri” scam.
How the “One-Ring” Scam Works
- The Call: Scammers, using automated dialing systems, place a call to your phone from an international number, such as one with a +245 prefix.
- The Hang-Up: They let the phone ring just once—enough to register as a missed call on your device—and then immediately hang up.
- The Bait: Their goal is to pique your curiosity. Seeing a missed call from an unknown number, your natural instinct might be to call back to see who it was.
- The Trap: When you return the call, you are connected to a premium-rate number, similar to a 1-900 number in the United States. These numbers charge exorbitant fees for every minute you stay on the line. The scammers will do everything they can to keep you on the phone for as long as possible, often using long recorded messages or hold music. The charges will then appear on your next phone bill.
What to Do If You Receive a Call from the 245 Area Code
Given that the 245 area code is not used in the United States and is linked to a foreign country known to be used in some scam operations, caution is paramount.
- Do Not Answer: If you do not recognize the number, it is best to let the call go to voicemail. A legitimate caller will likely leave a message.
- Do Not Call Back: Under no circumstances should you return a missed call from a +245 number or any other unfamiliar international code. This is the primary way scammers profit from this scheme.
- Block the Number: The best course of action is to block the number on your smartphone. This will prevent it from contacting you again in the future.
- Report the Call: You can report the unwanted call to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This helps government agencies track and combat scam operations.
In summary, while the 245 area code might appear on your phone, it is not a domestic call. It is the country code for Guinea-Bissau, and any unsolicited calls from this number should be treated with extreme suspicion. By following the simple steps above, you can protect yourself from potential phone scams and unwanted charges.
