Did you receive a missed call from a +63 country code? Don’t call back yet. You must make informed decisions about whether to call back the dialling code 63. As expected, seeing a call from an unknown number can be unsettling. You want to be sure it’s not a scam, alongside avoiding missing an important call. Fortunately, this guide explains what the 63 country code means. You’ll learn why you got the call and the safe steps to identify and respond to potential scams.
What country code is 63?
Generally, the +63 country code is the international area code for the Philippines. This means any phone number beginning with the dialling code +63 originates from this Southeast Asian nation. Hence, when calling from abroad, you need to dial the +63 prefix before the local subscriber number to connect.
This means that the Philippines phone numbers have the specific structure:
+63 [Network Prefix] [Subscriber Number].
Here are a few examples:
- +63917 xxx xxxx; This is a mobile number on the Globe or TM network.
- +63 2 xxx xxxx: This is a Manila landline number with two as the area code for Metro Manila
Why did I receive a missed call with the +63 country code?
Regardless, even though the international area code 63 is for the Philippines, you should pay attention to the reasons you might have received a misdial. Here are a few reasons why a 63 country code missed call occurred.
Attempted scam
The Philippines dialling code 63 has been linked to many fraudulent text and call schemes. In 2024, three out of four (74%) Filipinos reported experiencing digital scams. A good example is the “one ring scam”. In this scam, the caller lets your phone ring once and hangs up. They hope to pique your interest enough to call back, where you might be connected to a premium-rate number, resulting in exorbitant call charges.
Wrong number
It could be an honest mistake when Someone in the Philippines misdials an international number, leading to an accidental call to you. For instance, some people trying to call Indonesia (+62) might mistakenly dial the Philippines code (+63) due to confusion.
Legitimate international calls
There’s also the possibility that someone you know uses the phone number country code 63. You may have a business contact, a friend traveling, or a family member in the Philippines who is trying to get in touch with you. It’s also possible that the person may have purchased a VOIP service. VOIP services allow users to make calls using an internet connection. They don’t actually need to own a Philippine SIM card to use this service. In the Philippines, overseas workers often use these services to call their families locally, because it saves cost on international calls.
How to identify & respond to +63 missed calls?
Now you know the different reasons you may have received a +63 country code missed call. The next thing you need to do is follow these steps below to ensure your security and peace of mind.
Do not call back immediately
This is the most critical role. Calling back is precisely what scammers want you to do. It’s also what telemarketers expect to confirm that your phone number is active. That confirmation turns your phone number into a hot target for more scams and spam. It could also connect you to a high-fee service.
Do not click the link in the text message
Sometimes, after you’ve received those missed calls, you’ll receive a phishing text message urging you to click a link to hear a “voicemail”. Or the SMS might claim you won a “prize”. The rule here is to never click links from unknown or suspicious numbers.
Use the Philippine reverse phone lookup to verify
Instead of calling back, you have the internet as your advantage. A fantastic web-based reverse phone lookup service, such as LocatePhone, is a smart idea. This service can help verify a caller’s identity, identify the carrier, and in some cases, the general location of the number. You’ll also see if the phone number has been reported as fraudulent.
Exercise caution with unfamiliar numbers
You should always be wary of unsolicited calls from numbers you don’t recognize. And it’s not about the country code. If it’s important, the caller might leave a voicemail or send a follow-up text.
Report the scam number to the telecom provider
When you’ve confirmed that the call was a scam or spam attempt, report the number to your mobile carrier. They have teams that can track and block fraudulent numbers. Additionally, consider posting a complaint about the phone number on your favorite online forums. This can help protect other people.
Block the number
You can also act immediately on your device. Consider manually blocking that specific number in your phone’s call settings. And when you want more protection, you can enable the “Do Not Disturb” or “Silence Unknown Callers’ modes. Doing that will ensure calls from numbers not on your contact list go straight to voicemail.
What if I recalled a missed 63 call?
If you’ve already called the phone number, you don’t need to panic. Here are some steps you can take afterwards:
- Potential scam: There’s still a chance you may have connected to an automated system or a person running a scam. Be cautious of unusual conversations, requests for information or money.
- Unexpected charge: If the number is a premium rate line, you might get a charge on your next phone bill. You need to monitor closely.
- Personal information exposure: Avoid staying on these calls too long. The longer you are on, the greater the risk of providing information you feel is irrelevant but makes you vulnerable. If you did, consider taking steps to change your passwords on your account, alert your bank, and monitor your financial statements closely.
FAQ
Can scammers fake +63 numbers?
Yes, scammers can either purchase VOIP services with the +63 number or use a technique called caller ID spoofing. Caller ID spoofing would make the call appear as though it’s coming from a legitimate +63 number when, in fact, it’s not. The displayed number does not guarantee the caller’s identity or true location.
What if I miss a call from another country?
When you miss a call from any other country, the same rules apply. You must exercise caution and refrain from calling back immediately. Consider using a reverse phone lookup service, such as LocatePhone, to investigate the number. And finally, when on call, exercise caution when sharing information.
Why are foreign numbers calling me on WhatsApp?
Scammers also use WhatsApp or other internet-based messaging apps. All they have to do is store the number, and they can immediately view your WhatsApp profile. Plus, apps like WhatsApp allow them to call as many people as possible while spending less. They can target users randomly with spam messages or scam calls, hoping to find a victim.
Conclusion
Overall, getting a call from the 63 country code can be legitimate. However, it’s just as well that the 63 country code missed call can also be a scam attempt, like the “one-ring” scheme. It’s much better to use the measures we’ve shared in this article. That way, you can protect yourself while proactively circumventing all scam or spam attempts. Staying vigilant and following the steps we’ve outlined in this guide will protect you from potential fraud and ensure your peace of mind.
