The Definitive Guide to Phone Number +39 351: An Expert Report for U.S. Consumers

Decoding the Call: What is Phone Number +39 351?

 

An unexpected call from an international number can be perplexing and concerning. For residents of the United States, a call from a number formatted as +39 351 xxx xxxx is often a source of confusion. Understanding the structure of this number is the first step toward determining its origin, legitimacy, and potential risk. This section provides a comprehensive breakdown of the components of a +39 351 phone number, contextualizing it within the global and Italian telecommunications frameworks.

 

The Country Code: Locating +39 in the Global Network

 

The initial sequence of any international phone number, the country code, is the primary identifier of its national origin. The code +39 is the international country calling code for Italy. This code is designated and managed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for coordinating global telecommunication standards and operations.  

When placing a call from the United States to Italy, the dialing procedure depends on the type of phone being used. From a traditional landline, a caller must first dial the U.S. exit code, which is 011, followed by the country code 39 and the rest of the Italian phone number. From a mobile phone, the process is simplified: the  

+ symbol replaces the exit code, so a caller would simply dial +39 followed by the local number. The  

+39 country code also serves the sovereign state of Vatican City (VA), whose telephone system is integrated with Italy’s. Therefore, the presence of  

+39 unequivocally identifies the call as originating from the Italian telephone network.

 

The Mobile Prefix: Understanding Italy’s “3xx” Numbers

 

After the country code, the next series of digits reveals the type of service associated with the number. Within the Italian numbering plan, any number that begins with the digit 3 is exclusively allocated to mobile and personal communication services. This is a fundamental rule that distinguishes mobile numbers from geographic landline numbers, which begin with  

0, or other special service numbers.  

The prefix 351 falls directly into this mobile category. Consequently, a phone number formatted as  

+39 351... is not tied to a specific Italian city or region—unlike a North American area code—but is assigned to a mobile phone subscriber who could be located anywhere in the country. Italian mobile numbers, following the 3xx prefix, are typically seven to eight digits long, resulting in a total national number length of ten digits.  

 

The Italian Numbering Plan: A Primer for Americans

 

Italy operates under a “closed” telephone numbering plan, which is overseen by the national regulatory authority, Autorità per le Garanzie nelle Comunicazioni (AGCOM). In a closed plan, the full telephone number, including its prefix (what Americans would call an area code), must be dialed for every call, even if it is a local one.  

A significant point of confusion for American callers arises from a unique rule concerning Italian landline numbers. For geographic numbers, which always begin with a 0 (e.g., 06 for Rome, 02 for Milan), this leading 0 is an integral part of the number and must be dialed, even when calling from abroad. The correct format for calling a landline in Rome from the U.S. is  

+39 06 xxxx xxxx. This practice is a major departure from the international standard where a leading trunk zero is typically dropped for international calls, making it a frequent source of dialing errors for those unfamiliar with the Italian system.  

In stark contrast, Italian mobile numbers, which begin with the digit 3, never have a leading zero. The number is simply  

3xx xxx xxxx. Understanding this distinction is vital. While the +39 351 prefix is a mobile number and therefore straightforward to dial, the broader complexity of the Italian system can cause confusion. An American who has previously struggled to call an Italian hotel (a landline) might incorrectly apply the “drop the zero” rule or, conversely, try to add a zero to a mobile number. Clarifying the separate rules for landline (+39 0...) and mobile (+39 3...) numbers provides a more complete and useful understanding of the entire Italian dialing framework, preventing common errors and establishing a foundation of trust and authority.

 

Who Uses +39 351? Identifying the Mobile Carriers

 

Once it is established that +39 351 is an Italian mobile number, the next question is which specific company or companies issue these numbers. The Italian mobile market is a dynamic and competitive environment composed of established network owners and a multitude of virtual operators. The 351 prefix is not exclusive to one carrier but is allocated in blocks by the regulator, AGCOM.

 

Primary Operators Assigned the 351 Prefix

 

 

Detailed analysis of the Italian numbering plan reveals that the 351 prefix is primarily allocated to two specific operators, one a major network operator and the other a prominent virtual operator.

• Iliad Italia: A major Mobile Network Operator (MNO), Iliad is the primary user of the 351 prefix. It has been assigned the blocks ranging from 351-3 through 351-9. Iliad, a subsidiary of the French telecommunications giant, launched in Italy in 2018 and quickly grew to become the country’s fourth-largest mobile operator by disrupting the market with aggressive pricing and simple, no-contract plans. It operates its own physical network infrastructure, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies.  
• Lycamobile: A global Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Lycamobile has been assigned the prefix blocks 351-0, 351-1, and 351-2. As an MVNO, Lycamobile does not own its own network infrastructure in Italy; instead, it leases network access from Vodafone. Lycamobile is particularly known for offering low-cost international calling plans, making it popular among expatriate communities and travelers.  

 

Understanding the Italian Mobile Market: MNOs vs. MVNOs

 

The Italian mobile landscape is characterized by a few dominant Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and a large, vibrant ecosystem of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).

• Mobile Network Operators (MNOs): These are the companies that have built and maintain the physical cellular infrastructure, including towers, antennas, and core network equipment. The primary MNOs in Italy are TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile), Vodafone, and WINDTRE. Iliad is the fourth and newest MNO to build out its own network.  
• Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs): These companies do not own their own network infrastructure. Instead, they purchase wholesale access to an MNO’s network and resell services to consumers under their own brand. Italy has dozens of MVNOs, including well-known names like PosteMobile (the post office’s mobile service), CoopVoce (a supermarket chain’s brand), and Lycamobile. This model fosters intense competition, which benefits consumers with lower prices and diverse offerings. However, this complex market structure, with its many layers of providers, can also create an environment where it is more difficult for a foreign consumer to quickly identify the ultimate source of a call, a condition that can be exploited by those seeking anonymity.  

 

The Complication of Mobile Number Portability (MNP)

 

A critical factor that complicates the identification of a carrier by its prefix is Mobile Number Portability (MNP). Italy has a highly active MNP system that allows consumers to switch from one mobile provider to another while keeping their existing phone number. Millions of Italian mobile users port their numbers every year.  

This means that while a phone number like +39 351-8xx-xxxx was originally issued by Iliad, the subscriber could have since switched their service to Vodafone, TIM, or any other carrier in the market. The prefix indicates the original issuing operator, but it is not a reliable guide to the current service provider. This reality adds a significant layer of obfuscation, making it nearly impossible for an end-user to be certain of a caller’s network based on the prefix alone. This ambiguity is another factor that benefits scammers, who thrive when their identity and origin are difficult to trace.

The table below summarizes the original allocation of the +39 351 prefix blocks.

 

The Red Flag: Unsolicited Calls and Scams from +39 351

 

For most Americans, receiving an unexpected call from +39 351 raises immediate concerns about security and potential scams. While the prefix itself is legitimate, it has been associated with various fraudulent activities. This section addresses these fears directly, distinguishing between legitimate and illegitimate reasons for contact and deconstructing the most common scams.

 

“Why Am I Getting Calls from +39 351?” – Legitimate vs. Illegitimate Reasons

 

It is crucial to recognize that not every unexpected call from Italy is malicious. There are several perfectly legitimate reasons why a U.S. resident might receive such a call.

• Legitimate Reasons:
  • Tourism-Related Communication: Italy is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, and Americans are among the highest-spending visitors. If you are planning a trip to Italy, you could receive valid calls from hotels confirming a reservation, tour operators finalizing details, or car rental agencies regarding your booking.  
  • Business Correspondence: International business is common. Italian business culture often emphasizes building personal relationships, which may involve more direct phone communication than is typical in the U.S.. A call could be a legitimate follow-up to an email or a business inquiry.  
  • Personal Connections: The call could be from friends, family, or acquaintances living or traveling in Italy.
  • Misdials and Recycled Numbers: A simple and common explanation is human error. An Italian caller may have simply dialed the wrong number. Furthermore, phone numbers are frequently recycled. The previous owner of your U.S. phone number might have had contacts in Italy who are unaware the number has been reassigned.  
• Illegitimate Reasons:
  • The call is the initial step in a fraud attempt. Scammers use automated systems to dial vast ranges of numbers, and your number may have been included randomly in their target list. The most common schemes are the “Wangiri” billing scam and various forms of phishing.  

 

The “Wangiri” Scam: The One-Ring-and-Cut Threat

 

One of the most prevalent scams involving unexpected international calls is known as “Wangiri.” The term is Japanese for “one (ring) and cut,” which perfectly describes the method.  

The scam operates as follows: an automated system, or robocaller, places a call to your phone from an international number and disconnects after only one or two rings. This is designed to leave a missed call notification without giving you time to answer. The scammer’s goal is to exploit human curiosity; many people will see the missed call from an unknown international number and feel compelled to call back to find out who it was.  

The number they want you to call back is an International Premium Rate Number (IPRN). When you return the call, you are connected to a line that incurs extremely high per-minute charges, sometimes several dollars per minute. The scammer receives a share of these fees. They may use tactics to keep you on the line as long as possible, such as playing hold music or a recorded message, to maximize their profit. This is a high-volume, automated scam that costs perpetrators very little to operate. The most effective defense is simple:  

never call back an unknown international number.  

 

Phishing and Social Engineering: The WhatsApp Job Offer Scam

 

A more sophisticated scam that has been linked to Italian prefixes like +39 351 is a form of phishing that often takes place on messaging platforms like WhatsApp. This scam represents an evolution from simple billing fraud to targeted data theft.  

The attack typically begins with an unsolicited message or call. The scammer, sometimes using a professional-sounding recorded voice, claims to be from a recruitment agency or a large company. They will state that they have received your resume and are impressed with your qualifications, offering a tempting and often remote work-from-home job with a high salary.  

The entire scheme is designed to lure the victim into a conversation and build a false sense of trust. Once engaged, the scammer will ask for sensitive personal information under the pretext of completing the hiring process. This can include copies of your passport or driver’s license, your Social Security number, and even your bank account details for “direct deposit”. This is a classic social engineering attack that preys on the hopes of job seekers. The stolen data can then be used for identity theft, financial fraud, or sold on the dark web.  

 

Critical Distinction: +39 351 (Italy Mobile) vs. +351 (Portugal Country Code)

 

A significant source of confusion for U.S. consumers is the similarity between the Italian mobile prefix 351 and the country code for Portugal, which is +351. There have been widespread reports of a massive phishing campaign, very similar to the job offer scam described above, originating from numbers with the +351 country code for Portugal.  

An American user receiving a call is unlikely to discern the subtle but critical difference between a call from +39 351... and one from +351.... Both may appear on caller ID simply with the digits “351.” This confusion can be exploited by scammers. It is essential to understand this distinction:

• +39 351: A call from an Italian mobile phone. The country code is +39.
• +351: A call from Portugal. The country code is +351.  

While both number ranges have been implicated in fraudulent activities, they are from two different countries and telecommunication systems. This report focuses on the Italian prefix, but awareness of the similar-looking Portuguese country code is vital for a complete understanding of the potential threats.

 

Are +39 351 Numbers Safe? A Verdict on Risk

 

A phone number with the +39 351 prefix is not inherently unsafe. It is a valid and legitimate number range assigned to mobile carriers in Italy. The risk does not come from the number itself, but from the  

context of the communication. An unsolicited, unexpected call from any unknown international number should be treated with a high degree of caution.  

The safest approach is to assume that any unexpected international call is a potential risk. Do not answer. Do not call back. If the call is legitimate, the person will find another way to reach you, such as leaving a voicemail or sending an email. For those who wish to investigate further, services like Truecaller can provide crowdsourced spam statistics on specific numbers, which can help in assessing the level of risk associated with a particular caller. Ultimately, the power lies with the consumer to be vigilant and refuse to engage with suspicious contacts.  

 

A Practical Guide for the U.S. Consumer

 

Navigating international calls, whether making them or receiving them, requires practical knowledge about dialing procedures, costs, and security measures. This section provides U.S. consumers with clear, actionable, step-by-step instructions for interacting with the Italian telephone system and protecting themselves from unwanted contact.

 

How to Call +39 351 from the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide

 

Placing a call to an Italian mobile number from the United States is straightforward if the correct format is used.

• From a U.S. Mobile Phone (Recommended Method):
  1. Open your phone’s dialer.
  2. Press and hold the 0 key until the + symbol appears. This symbol serves as the universal international exit code.  
  3. Dial the Italy country code: 39.
  4. Dial the full 10-digit Italian mobile number, starting with 351.
  5. The final format will look like this: +39 351 xxx xxxx.  
• From a U.S. Landline:
  1. Dial the U.S. exit code: 011.  
  2. Dial the Italy country code: 39.
  3. Dial the full 10-digit Italian mobile number, starting with 351.
  4. The final format will look like this: 011 39 351 xxx xxxx.  

It is critical to remember that for mobile numbers beginning with a 3, no leading zero is ever added. This is distinct from the rule for Italian landlines.  

 

The Cost of Calling Italy: A Comparison of Major U.S. Carriers

 

The cost of calling Italy from the U.S. can vary dramatically depending on your mobile carrier and plan. Standard pay-per-minute rates are often expensive, while monthly international add-on plans can offer significant savings for those who make frequent calls.  

• AT&T: Without a specific international plan, pay-per-minute rates can be high. AT&T offers the AT&T International Calling add-on for $15 per month. This package provides unlimited calling from the U.S. to over 85 countries, which typically includes Italy, and discounted rates to more than 140 other nations.  
• Verizon: Standard pay-per-minute rates start from around $0.49 per minute but can be higher. Verizon provides more granular options. The  

  Global Choice plan allows a user to select one country (e.g., Italy) and receive 300 minutes for $10 per month, with any additional minutes billed at a low rate of $0.05 per minute. For heavier users, the  

  Global Calling Plus plan offers unlimited calls to both landlines and mobiles in over 60 countries, including Italy, for $15 per month.  
• T-Mobile: Many of T-Mobile’s standard plans, such as Go5G, offer a flat rate of $0.25 per minute for calls to Italy, which is significantly lower than the standard pay-per-use rates of other carriers. For those who need more, the  

  Stateside International Talk add-on costs $15 per month and includes unlimited calls to both landlines and mobile numbers in Italy.  

The following table provides a clear comparison of the most cost-effective options from the major U.S. carriers for calling Italy.

 

How to Block Unwanted International Calls

 

The most effective strategy for dealing with unwanted international calls is a layered defense, combining on-device settings with carrier-level services.

 

Blocking Calls on an iPhone

 

Apple’s iOS provides several tools to manage and block unwanted calls.

1. Block Individual Numbers: If you receive a call from a specific unwanted number, you can block it directly. Go to the Phone app, tap on Recents, find the number, tap the “i” (info) icon next to it, scroll down, and select Block this Caller. This will prevent that specific number from calling or messaging you again.  
2. Silence Unknown Callers: This is a powerful feature for stopping all spam calls from numbers not in your address book. Go to Settings > Phone and toggle on Silence Unknown Callers. With this enabled, calls from numbers that are not in your Contacts, recent outgoing calls, or Siri Suggestions will be sent directly to voicemail without ringing your phone.  
3. Use Third-Party Apps: For more advanced filtering, you can download call-blocking apps like Truecaller or Hiya from the App Store. After installing, you must enable them by going to Settings > Phone > Call Blocking & Identification and toggling the app on. These apps use large databases of known spam numbers to block them automatically.  

 

Blocking Calls on an Android

 

The process for blocking calls on Android can vary slightly depending on the phone’s manufacturer (e.g., Samsung, Google Pixel), but the core principles are similar.

1. Block Individual Numbers: As with iPhone, you can block specific numbers from your recent calls list. Open the Phone app, tap on your call history, long-press the number you wish to block, and select the Block or Report spam option.  
2. Use Built-in Spam Protection: Most modern Android phones have built-in spam protection. In the Google Phone app, go to Settings > Spam and Call Screen (or similar) to ensure that spam filtering is enabled. This will automatically identify and flag suspected spam calls.  
3. Use Third-Party Apps: Apps like Truecaller are also available on the Google Play Store and offer robust call-blocking and caller ID features, similar to their iOS counterparts.  

 

Carrier-Level Blocking

 

The most foolproof method to protect against accidentally returning a “Wangiri” scam call and incurring high charges is to block the ability to make outgoing international calls at the carrier level. This is highly recommended for individuals, particularly the elderly or children, who have no need to place international calls.

• AT&T: You can request to have international calling blocked on your line. This can often be done through your myAT&T online account or by calling customer service at 611.  
• T-Mobile: Blocking outgoing international calls requires contacting T-Mobile customer service directly at 1-877-746-0909 or by dialing 611 from your T-Mobile phone.  
• Verizon: You can request an international calling block by contacting Verizon’s customer service, typically by dialing 611 from your Verizon phone.  

This proactive step creates a crucial safety net. The cost to the scammer of making a robocall is virtually zero, while the cost to the victim of a single callback can be substantial. This economic imbalance places the burden of defense on the consumer. Implementing a carrier-level block is a powerful way to shift that balance back in your favor, eliminating the financial risk of these scams entirely.  

 

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

 

The phone number prefix +39 351 is a legitimate mobile designator within the Italian telecommunications system, primarily allocated to subscribers of the mobile network operators Iliad Italia and Lycamobile. However, its legitimacy does not preclude its use in malicious activities. The evidence indicates that numbers from this prefix, like many other international number ranges, are actively used in fraudulent schemes targeting U.S. consumers.

The primary threats identified are the “Wangiri” one-ring scam, designed to trick victims into calling back premium-rate numbers, and more sophisticated phishing scams, often conducted via WhatsApp with fake job offers intended to steal personal and financial data. Compounding the issue is the potential for confusion with the country code for Portugal (+351), which has been associated with its own large-scale phishing campaigns.

For any U.S. consumer who receives an unsolicited call from +39 351 or any other unknown international number, a posture of extreme caution is warranted. The following recommendations provide a clear, actionable framework for mitigating risk:

• NEVER Call Back an Unknown International Number: This is the single most important rule. If a call from an unknown international number rings only once and hangs up, it is almost certainly a Wangiri scam attempt. If the matter is legitimate and urgent, the caller will leave a voicemail or contact you through another channel like email.  
• VERIFY All Unsolicited Offers and Requests: Be deeply skeptical of any unexpected job offers, prize notifications, or warnings about your accounts. Never provide personal information, passwords, or financial details in response to an unsolicited call or message. Instead, independently verify the claim by contacting the supposed organization through their official, publicly listed website or phone number.  
• BLOCK Proactively on Your Device: Use the features built into your smartphone. Block specific spam numbers as they come in. For a more comprehensive solution, enable the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature on your iPhone or the equivalent spam protection on your Android device. This acts as a powerful first line of defense.  
• PROTECT Your Finances at the Carrier Level: The most effective way to eliminate the financial risk of Wangiri scams is to prevent the possibility of an accidental and expensive callback. Contact your mobile carrier—AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile—and request a block on all outgoing international calls for any lines on your account that do not require this functionality. This is the ultimate safety net.  
• REPORT Suspicious Activity: Help combat these fraudulent operations by reporting them to the appropriate U.S. authorities. Scam calls and messages can be reported to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) via its website, ReportFraud.ftc.gov. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Reporting helps law enforcement and regulatory agencies track trends and take action against scammers.