The 642 area code is a telephone area code that serves the region around Navojoa in the state of Sonora, Mexico. It is not a US or Canadian area code, which is an important distinction for anyone receiving a call or text from this number.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential details about the 642 area code, including its location, how to dial it, and crucial information regarding potential phone scams.
Where is the 642 Area Code Located?
The 642 area code is officially assigned to a specific geographic region within Mexico.
| Detail | Information |
| Area Code: | 642 |
| Country: | Mexico |
| Primary Location: | Navojoa, Sonora |
| Major Cities Covered: | Navojoa and surrounding areas in Sonora, Mexico. |
| Time Zone: | Mountain Time (MT) – The area observes a time zone generally corresponding to the US Mountain Time Zone. Note that local daylight saving rules may vary. |
This area code is part of Mexico’s fixed-line numbering plan, where telephone numbers are ten digits long (three-digit area code plus seven-digit local number).
Navojoa is a city in the southern part of the state of Sonora, a large state in Northwest Mexico bordering the US state of Arizona. This region is known for its agriculture, history, and proximity to the Gulf of California. If you receive a call from a 642 number, the caller is physically located in or near Navojoa.
How to Call a 642 Area Code Number (International Dialing)
Since the 642 area code is international (outside of the North American Numbering Plan which covers the US, Canada, and parts of the Caribbean), the dialing procedure is different from a standard domestic call.
To successfully place a call to a 642 number in Navojoa, you must use the proper international dialing sequence:
International Access Code+Mexico Country Code+Area Code+Local Number
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions:
- Dial the International Access Code:
- From the US or Canada, dial 011.
- From most other countries, the code is 00.
- Dial the Mexico Country Code: 52
- Dial the Area Code: 642
- Dial the Local Number: The remaining 7 digits of the phone number.
Example (Calling from the US/Canada): 011 + 52 + 642 + XXX-XXXX
Is the 642 Area Code Linked to Scams?
While the 642 area code itself is a legitimate geographic area code in Mexico, international area codes are frequently exploited by scammers in what are commonly known as “One-Ring Scams” or international call-back scams.
The One-Ring Scam Explained:
- How it Works: Scammers use automated dialers to call a large number of phone users (often in the US or Canada) and hang up after just one or two rings.
- The Bait: The goal is to pique your curiosity and tempt you to call the number back.
- The Trap: If you call back, you are unknowingly connecting to an international premium-rate phone number. You will be charged an expensive connection fee and costly per-minute fees for as long as the scammer keeps you on the line, sometimes even if the call appears not to connect. These charges will appear on your next phone bill.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Do Not Call Back: The most important rule is to never return a call or text from a number you do not recognize, especially if it only rang once or is an international code you do not expect.
- Verify the Number: If you are genuinely expecting an international call, verify the source through another channel (email, text, social media). You can also quickly search the area code online for scam reports.
- Use Call Blocking: Enable “Silence Unknown Callers” on your smartphone or use call-blocking features provided by your mobile carrier or third-party apps to intercept suspicious calls.
- Report the Call: Report suspected scams to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and your phone service provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Country is Area Code 642?
The 642 area code is in Mexico, serving the city of Navojoa and the surrounding region in the state of Sonora.
Is the 642 Area Code Domestic or International?
The 642 area code is considered an international area code for callers located in the United States, Canada, and other countries in the North American Numbering Plan. Calls made to this code from outside Mexico will require international dialing prefixes.
Should I answer a call from a 642 number?
It is generally recommended not to answer or call back an unknown number with the 642 area code. If you do not have business or personal contacts in Navojoa, Mexico, the call is highly likely to be a scam attempting to trick you into calling back a premium-rate international line. Let the call go to voicemail; if it’s legitimate, they will leave a message.
What is the time zone for Navojoa, Mexico (Area Code 642)?
The Navojoa area (642) typically observes Mountain Time (MT). However, because it is in Mexico, it’s always best to quickly confirm the current time, especially regarding Daylight Saving Time, to ensure accuracy when placing a call.
Conclusion
The 642 area code is a genuine, active area code for Navojoa, Sonora, Mexico. While it serves a legitimate region, its international status makes it a frequent target for phone scams designed to trick users into calling back expensive premium-rate numbers.
For your safety and to protect your phone bill, remember to treat unsolicited calls from the 642 area code with caution. Do not return the call unless you are certain of the caller’s identity and you expect them to be calling from this specific international location.
