The 642 area code is a valid geographic telephone area code serving a city in the northwestern region of Mexico.
Specifically, the 642 area code is assigned to Navojoa, a prominent municipality in the state of Sonora, Mexico. It is not a North American Area Code (NANP) for the United States or Canada, meaning that international dialing rules must be followed to successfully place a call to this region.
This article details the exact location, time zone, dialing procedure, and potential confusion regarding the 642 area code.
Where is the 642 Area Code Located?
The 642 area code is situated in the Northwest region of Mexico, in the state of Sonora, which borders the U.S. state of Arizona.
| Detail | Information |
| Area Code: | 642 |
| Country: | Mexico |
| Primary Location: | Navojoa, Sonora |
| Full Dialing Code: | +52 642 (where 52 is Mexico’s Country Code) |
| Time Zone: | Mountain Time (MT), observing Mountain Standard Time (MST) and Mountain Daylight Time (MDT). |
Navojoa is a commercial and agricultural center in the southern part of Sonora. The area code 642 falls under the Mountain Time Zone (MT), aligning with much of the US and Canada’s Mountain Time states (like Arizona, which is geographically close).
How to Call the 642 Area Code (International Dialing)
Mexico operates on a national 10-digit numbering plan (Country Code + 10 digits total). Since 642 is a Mexican code, you must include the country code (+52) when calling from the US or Canada.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions (From the US/Canada):
- Dial the International Exit Code: Use 011 (standard for the US/Canada) or the universal plus sign (+) on a mobile phone.
- Dial the Mexico Country Code: Enter 52.
- Dial the Area Code: Enter 642.
- Dial the Local Number: Enter the remaining 7 digits of the local phone number.
Note: Unlike historical dialing methods, there is no need to dial a leading “1” after the 52 country code when calling Mexican mobile phones anymore. The current national standard is 10 digits following the country code for both fixed and mobile lines.
Potential Scams and Safety Advice
While the 642 area code is completely legitimate, any international code is susceptible to misuse by scammers.
International Call Scams
International area codes, including those in Mexico, can be used in phishing or extortion scams.
- Extortion/Kidnapping Scams: Callers may pretend a family member is in trouble and demand immediate money transfer.
- Prize/Sweepstakes Scams: The caller claims you have won a prize but need to pay taxes or fees via wire transfer.
Actionable Safety Advice:
- Verify the Caller: If you receive an unexpected call from the +52 642 code, and you do not have contacts in Navojoa, do not give out any personal or financial information.
- Treat as International: Remember that calls to this code, though only 10 digits, are international. Unless you have an international calling plan, your carrier will charge you international rates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is 642 a US or Canadian area code?
No. The 642 area code is an official geographic code for Navojoa, Sonora, Mexico. It is not part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) for the US or Canada.
What is the time zone in Navojoa?
Navojoa, served by the 642 area code, is located in the Mountain Time Zone (MT), which is typically UTC -7 hours during Standard Time and UTC -6 hours during Daylight Time.
How long is a phone number in the 642 area code?
When dialed internationally, a phone number with the 642 area code is always 10 digits long after the country code (+52). Example: +52 642 XXX XXXX.
Conclusion
The 642 area code is the identifier for Navojoa, Sonora, Mexico. To ensure successful communication, always use the +52 642 international dialing format. Be mindful of the Mountain Time difference and remain vigilant against potential phone scams that may originate from international numbers.
