855 Area Code Scam Calls: Don’t Fall!

Nowadays, scam calls have become a constant issue, with scammers using various tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals. One such tactic involves using the 855 area code, a toll-free number commonly associated with legitimate businesses.

However, scammers have found ways to use this, leading to a rise in fraudulent activities. This article explores what 855 area code scam calls are, how they work, and how you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams.

855 Area Code Scam Calls Overview

The 855 area code is part of the toll-free number system, which also includes codes like 800, 888, 877, 866, 844, and 833. These numbers are used by businesses to provide customer service, support, or sales inquiries without charging the caller. Unfortunately, scammers have taken the opportunity to use these numbers to carry out fraudulent activities.

Scam calls from the 855 area code can take many forms, appearing to be from legitimate companies, government agencies, or other trusted organizations. The goal is usually to trick the recipient into revealing personal information, such as credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, or other sensitive data.

How 855 Area Code Scam Calls Work?

Scammers use the 855 area code to carry out a range of deceptive schemes to unsuspecting victims. These fraudulent calls use methods like robocalls, phishing, and fake surveys to trick individuals into disclosing sensitive information or sending money.

Robocalls are one of the most common strategies used in these scams. These automated calls deliver pre-recorded messages, designed to create a sense of urgency.

The message might claim to be from a government agency, a tech support service, or a debt collector, and it urges the recipient to take immediate action. The primary objective is to pressure the victim into providing personal information or making a payment.

Phishing is another tactic where scammers use 855 numbers to impersonate legitimate companies or government entities. They create a false narrative, such as claiming there’s an issue with your account or taxes, to force you into sharing sensitive information like your Social Security number or financial details.

How To Stay Safe From These Scams?

Scam calls can be problematic, but there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.

1. Be Careful of Unsolicited Calls

If you receive a call from an 855 number that you weren’t expecting, proceed with caution. Legitimate businesses and organizations don’t make unsolicited calls demanding immediate action or payment. If the caller pressures you to act quickly, it’s a red flag.

2. Avoid Sharing Personal Information

Never share sensitive information, such as your Social Security number, bank account details, or passwords, with unsolicited callers. Authentic companies won’t ask for such information in this manner.

3. Verify the Caller

If the caller claims to be from a legitimate company or government agency, hang up and contact the organization directly using an official phone number. This ensures that you’re speaking to a genuine representative and not a scammer.

4. Register for the National Do Not Call Registry

Adding your phone number to the National Do Not Call Registry can help reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. While this won’t stop all scam calls, it can reduce the volume of legitimate telemarketing calls, which scammers often try to mimic.

5. Use Caller ID and Call Blocking Features

Most modern phones and phone services offer caller ID and call-blocking features. Use these tools to screen calls from unknown 855 numbers and block numbers that repeatedly engage in suspicious activity.

6. Report Suspicious Calls

If you receive a call that you believe is a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your state’s consumer protection office. Reporting these calls helps authorities track scam trends and take action against those responsible.