The search query “area code 258” suggests the user is attempting to verify the source of an unknown call, often because the number appears unusual for domestic communication.
The 258 area code is not a valid geographic area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which covers the US and Canada. Instead, 258 is the international country calling code for Mozambique (Republic of Mozambique) in Southeast Africa. If you received a call from a number displaying 258, it is likely an international call or a potential scam attempt.
Understanding the origin and proper dialing rules for the +258 country code is crucial for avoiding unexpected charges.
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Location and Origin of Code 258
The number 258 is a country code assigned by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Primary Location and Time Zone
- Country: Mozambique (Republic of Mozambique).
- Location: Southeast Africa, bordering South Africa.
- Time Zone: Central Africa Time (CAT), which is UTC+2 hours year-round. Mozambique does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Phone Number Structure in Mozambique
Mozambican phone numbers typically follow a 9-digit National Significant Number (NSN) after the country code. When calling a landline in Mozambique, you will use the country code plus the 1- or 2-digit area code (e.g., 21 for Maputo).
| Major City/Region | Area Code |
| Maputo (Capital) | 21 |
| Beira | 23 |
| Quelimane | 24 |
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How to Dial a Mozambique Number
To successfully connect a call to Mozambique from North America, you must use the following format:
| Step | Digits | Example (Calling Maputo) |
| 1. International Exit Code | 011 (or + on a mobile phone) | 011 |
| 2. Mozambique Country Code | 258 | 011 258 |
| 3. Area Code | 21 | 011 258 21 |
| 4. Local Number | 6 or 7 digits (Varies by type) | 011 258 21 XXX XXXX |
Important: Because 258 is a country code, calls to this destination are subject to international long-distance rates from your carrier.
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Scam and Fraud Warning (The Ring-and-Run)
Calls from unknown international country codes, especially those in the African region, are often associated with phone fraud.
- The “One-Ring” Scam (Wangiri): This is the most common risk. A scammer uses an automated system to call and hang up quickly (often after just one ring) to lure you into calling back.
- The Cost: If you call back an unknown +258 number, you may be connected to an international premium-rate line that charges exorbitant per-minute fees, which appear on your next phone bill.
Actionable Safety Advice
- Do Not Answer or Call Back: Never answer or return a missed call from the +258 country code unless you are absolutely certain you know the person or organization calling.
- Hang Up Immediately: If you answer and the caller claims to have an urgent financial offer, problem, or prize, hang up right away.
- Check Your Bill: If you mistakenly call back, monitor your next phone bill closely for unexpected international charges and report them to your carrier immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is 258 a US area code?
No. The area code 258 is not recognized or assigned within the United States or Canada.
Will I be charged for receiving a call from +258?
No. Your mobile carrier does not typically charge you for receiving an incoming call or text, even if it is international, while you are within your home coverage area. The charge comes from calling the number back.
How do I stop calls from +258 numbers?
Use your smartphone’s built-in Silence Unknown Callers feature or a carrier-provided spam-blocking app to screen or block calls from unfamiliar international numbers.
