The 225 country code (+225) is the international dialing prefix used to reach telephone numbers in Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), a country located on the southern coast of West Africa.
This is a frequently reported international code used in various scams, particularly the “Wangiri” or missed call scam. It is essential to know the country’s dialing structure and time zone to avoid incurring high international charges.
This article provides the necessary steps for successfully dialing numbers in Côte d’Ivoire and offers critical advice on how to handle unsolicited calls from the +225 country code.
225 Country Code: Location and Time Zone
Côte d’Ivoire is a large economic center in West Africa, with its largest city and primary economic hub being Abidjan.
Location and Key Details
| Detail | Information |
| Country | Côte d’Ivoire (also known as Ivory Coast) |
| Continent | Africa |
| Capital City | Yamoussoukro (Abidjan is the largest city) |
| Time Zone | Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or UTC±00:00 |
| Daylight Saving Time | Côte d’Ivoire does not observe Daylight Saving Time. |
Time Difference: Since Côte d’Ivoire operates on UTC±00:00, the time difference can be significant, especially when calling from North America:
- During EST (Eastern Standard Time), Côte d’Ivoire is 5 hours ahead.
- During PST (Pacific Standard Time), Côte d’Ivoire is 8 hours ahead.
Dialing Instructions for the +225 Country Code
In 2021, Côte d’Ivoire implemented a major change to its National Numbering Plan, transitioning all numbers from 8 digits to 10 digits to cope with mobile number saturation.
International Dialing Format
To call a number in Côte d’Ivoire from abroad, use the following ten-digit structure:
- Dial Your Country’s Exit Code:
- 011 (if calling from the US/Canada)
- 00 (if calling from most of Europe/Asia)
- Dial the Country Code: 225
- Dial the 10-Digit National Number: XX XX XX XX XX
| Call Type Example | New Format (10-digit) | Notes |
| International Call (from US/Canada) | 011 – 225 – XX – XX – XX – XX – XX | The full 10 digits must be used. |
| Mobile Numbers | +225 01 XX XX XXXX or +225 05 XX XX XXXX | Mobile numbers often start with specific operator prefixes (like 01, 05, 07). |
Warning: Scam Risk and Unsolicited Calls
The +225 country code is frequently listed by global authorities (including the FCC and European law enforcement) as a source of Wangiri (missed call) scams.
The Wangiri Scam
The goal of this scam is simple: to make money from your expensive international callback.
- The Call: Scammers use automated dialers to call your number and hang up after just one or two rings, hoping you see a missed call notification.
- The Trap: Out of curiosity or concern, you call the number back. Since it is an international number (+225), you are immediately connected to a premium-rate service that charges exorbitant per-minute fees.
- The Cost: These fees can quickly rack up massive charges on your phone bill, with the scammer receiving a portion of the revenue generated.
Actionable Steps to Protect Yourself
- Do Not Answer Unknown International Calls: If you are not expecting a call from Côte d’Ivoire, let it ring or silence it. Answering may flag your number as active for future scams.
- NEVER Call Back a +225 Missed Call: Do not return the call. A legitimate caller will always leave a voicemail or contact you via a verifiable method (like email).
- Block Outgoing International Calls: If you have no need to call abroad, contact your mobile service provider (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) and request that they block all outgoing international calls from your line to prevent accidental callback charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 225 country code used in scams?
International country codes from West Africa (like +225, +234 for Nigeria, and +229 for Benin) are popular with scammers because they are outside of the North American Numbering Plan and carry high international dialing rates, making them profitable for fraudulent callback schemes.
What is the capital of Côte d’Ivoire?
The official political capital of Côte d’Ivoire is Yamoussoukro. However, the largest city, primary government seat, and economic hub is Abidjan.
Is there a US Area Code 225?
Yes, there is an area code 225 in the US, which serves Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This can sometimes lead to confusion, as a US number will appear as (225) XXX-XXXX, while an international number will display with the plus sign: +225 (Ivory Coast). Always check for the presence of the “+” symbol or the full international exit code (e.g., 011) to determine the call’s true origin.
