The 264 area code is the dedicated telephone area code for Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory in the Eastern Caribbean. Since Anguilla is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), calls placed from the United States, Canada, or other NANP countries to the 264 area code are dialed as a long-distance call, rather than a full international call (which would require an exit code).
The code was specifically chosen because the digits “264” spell out “ANG” on a telephone keypad, a mnemonic for Anguilla.
This article will detail the location and time zone of the 264 area code, clarify the dialing format, and provide important information about potential phone scams originating from the Caribbean region.
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Location and Time Zone of the 264 Area Code
The 264 area code is unique in that it covers the entire small Caribbean territory of Anguilla, ensuring consistent dialing across the island.
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Anguilla, British Overseas Territory, Caribbean |
| Major City Covered | The Valley (Capital) |
| Time Zone | Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is UTC-4. |
| Dialing Format | +1 264 XXX XXXX |
Time Zone Clarification
Anguilla observes Atlantic Standard Time (AST) year-round and does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST).
- During U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST) (Winter): Anguilla (AST) is 1 hour ahead of New York/Florida (EST).
- During U.S. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (Summer): Anguilla (AST) is the same time as New York/Florida (EDT).
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How to Dial a Phone Number in the 264 Area Code
Because Anguilla is integrated into the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), dialing a 264 number is the same process as dialing another US or Canadian area code.
Dialing Format (From U.S. or Canada)
To call a number in Anguilla, you simply dial 1 followed by the 10-digit number:
Dialing Format (From Other International Countries)
To call Anguilla from countries outside the NANP (e.g., the UK or France), you must use the full international dialing format:
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Scam Warning: Unsolicited Calls from the Caribbean
Many area codes within the Caribbean region are frequently exploited by scammers to target consumers in the United States and Canada. The 264 area code, like its regional neighbors (e.g., 876 Jamaica, 268 Antigua), is often used in this fraudulent activity.
The “One-Ring” Scam Risk
If you receive an unexpected call from a (264) number that rings only once or twice, be highly suspicious. This is a common tactic known as the “One-Ring” or “Wangiri” scam.
- The Trap: Scammers use robocalling to dial thousands of numbers and hang up quickly, hoping your curiosity will prompt you to call them back.
- The Cost: If you return the call, you are connected to a premium-rate international number. You will be charged exorbitant per-minute rates on your phone bill, while the scammer collects a portion of the fee.
Essential Safety Steps
- Do Not Answer: Unless you are expecting a call from Anguilla, avoid answering unsolicited calls from the 264 area code. Answering confirms that your line is active.
- Do Not Call Back: Under no circumstances should you return a missed call from an unfamiliar international number.
- Use Call Protection: Activate your carrier’s spam-blocking service (e.g., T-Mobile Scam Shield, AT&T Call Protect, Verizon Call Filter) to automatically identify and block known fraudulent numbers.
- Report the Number: You can report suspicious numbers to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is calling the 264 area code considered an international call?
Yes, it is an international call, but it is dialed like a domestic U.S. long-distance call. Since Anguilla is part of the North American Numbering Plan (+1), you dial plus the local number. However, depending on your phone plan, you may still be charged international long-distance rates for calling the 264 area code. Always check your mobile or landline provider’s rates first.
What are the major cities in the 264 area code?
The 264 area code covers the entire territory of Anguilla, which is a relatively small island. The largest and capital city is The Valley.
When did the 264 area code start service?
The 264 area code was implemented in 1997 following a split from the original single area code that covered most of the Caribbean region, which was the 809 area code.
