In the vast system of phone numbers across the United States, new area codes are periodically introduced to meet growing demand.1 This often leads to questions about what regions new or unfamiliar codes serve. If you’ve recently encountered the 622 area code and are wondering where it’s located, the answer is simple: it is not in service anywhere in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
An Unassigned and Unused Area Code
Currently, the 622 area code is not a legitimate, assigned area code in the United States, Canada, or any of the Caribbean nations that are part of the NANP. This means no city, state, or region uses this prefix for its phone numbers.
While the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) has a list of planned and reserved area codes for future use, 622 is not designated for any specific purpose at this time. It remains reserved for potential future assignment as the need for new phone numbers continues to expand.
Distinguishing Area Codes from Other Numbers
It’s important to differentiate a three-digit area code from other numerical sequences you might see on your phone.
- Country Codes: Some numbers may appear similar to area codes but are actually country codes for international calls. However, there is no country assigned the code +622.
- Fictional Use: Occasionally, unassigned area codes like 622 are used in movies, television shows, or books as fictional contact numbers to avoid using real phone numbers.
- Scam Calls and “Spoofing”: The most likely reason you would see the 622 area code on your caller ID is through a practice known as “spoofing.” Scammers can manipulate the caller ID to display any number they choose—including unassigned ones. They do this to hide their true location and to trick you into answering a call you might otherwise ignore.
What to Do If You Receive a Call from the 622 Area Code?
Because the 622 area code is not in service, any call you receive that appears to originate from it should be treated with extreme caution. It is almost certainly a spoofed call from a telemarketer or a scammer.
Here are the recommended steps:
- Do Not Answer: The best practice for any number you don’t recognize—especially an invalid one—is to let it go to voicemail. A legitimate caller will leave a message.
- Do Not Provide Personal Information: If you do answer by mistake, never provide or confirm any personal details, such as your name, address, date of birth, or financial information. Hang up immediately.
- Block the Number: Use your smartphone’s features to block the number. This will prevent it from calling you again.
- Report the Call: You can report unwanted and fraudulent calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) via the National Do Not Call Registry and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).2 Reporting these numbers helps authorities track and combat illegal calling operations.
In conclusion, the 622 area code is not a valid area code in the United States. Any call received from this number is illegitimate and likely an attempt at a scam. By staying vigilant and not engaging with these calls, you can protect yourself from potential fraud.
