Are you curious about “What Country Is 63” after seeing a strange phone number on your caller ID? “WHAT.EDU.VN” is here to help you understand what a +63 number means and how to protect yourself from potential scams and identify the location. This article will explore the common reasons for calls from this country code and what you should do, covering the area code, local number, and communication methods to find information about the calling party.
1. What Does a +63 Number Mean?
A phone number that starts with +63 is from the Philippines. The Philippines’ country code is +63, and these calls could be legitimate or scams. You can normally expect to receive a voicemail or other follow-up communication, such as an email or WhatsApp message, to explain the reason for the call.
2. Legitimate Reasons for Receiving a Call From the Philippines (+63)
Not every call from the Philippines is a scam. There are valid reasons why someone might be trying to reach you from this country. Here’s a breakdown:
2.1 Business Connections
If you or your company have recent business dealings with a company in the Philippines, a +63 number calling you might be a legitimate business call.
2.2 Recruitment Opportunities
Have you applied for jobs in the Philippines or signed up with a recruitment agency there? A +63 number could be a recruiter trying to reach you about a job opportunity.
2.3 Financial or Legal Matters
Do you have bank accounts, investments, or trusts held in the Philippines? Are you subject to Philippine’s tax system in any way? A financial or tax representative or even a government official might be calling you.
2.4 Travel Arrangements
If you recently traveled to the Philippines or have travel plans booked through an agency, the call could be about a booking issue or urgent travel information.
2.5 Shipping and Deliveries
If you’re expecting a shipment from the Philippines, a +63 number could be a customs call or an urgent update about your delivery.
2.6 Accidental Dialing or Number Recycling
Sometimes, people simply misdial. Additionally, phone number recycling means a previous owner of your number might have had connections to the Philippines.
3. Common Scams Using +63 Numbers
Unfortunately, scam calls are increasingly common. Scammers use social engineering tactics to trick people. The volume of spam calls is worsening. It is important to be careful when receiving calls, WhatsApp messages, or texts from unknown numbers, including those with a +63 country code. Always assume calls from the Philippines are scams if you have no connections to the country.
3.1 Advance Fee Fraud
Scammers may call and say you’re entitled to a large sum of money (inheritance, prize, welfare payment). Before you can receive it, you must pay a fee or advance payment. This is a ploy to steal your money.
3.2 Ping/One-Ring Calls
These calls ring briefly and hang up. If you call back, you may incur high international calling charges. Scammers use this to test the validity of your number for future scams or simply to annoy you.
3.3 Fake Job Offers
You might receive a call for a job you didn’t apply for, offering an attractive position and salary. You’ll be asked to provide personal information or pay for training, equipment, or visa applications. These scams leave you without money and a job.
3.4 Phishing Attacks
Scammers send fake emails or texts pretending to be from trusted sources (banks, delivery services, insurance companies). These messages contain links to fake websites where you’re tricked into revealing personal details.
3.5 Romance Scams
Scammers build a fake romantic relationship to extort money. They gain your trust and then claim to be in a difficult situation, needing financial help.
3.6 Technical Support Scams
Fraudsters pretend to be from a tech company or IT support service, claiming to fix computer problems. They ask you to grant them remote access to your computer to steal data or install malware.
3.7 Police Fraud Scams
Scammers impersonate police officers and claim you or a relative will be arrested unless you pay bail or a court fee in advance.
4. What Do Scammers Want From You?
Scammers are ultimately after money. To get it, they may try to:
- Steal financial data (credit card numbers, bank account details)
- Obtain personal data (name, date of birth, address)
- Get login credentials (usernames, passwords)
- Learn about your habits and preferences
- Gather health data (medical history, insurance details)
- Determine how easy a target you are
- Build your trust
5. How to Protect Yourself From Scam Calls
If you don’t know anyone in the Philippines, be cautious and consider these options:
5.1 Ignore the Call
If you receive a call or text from an unknown +63 number, ignore it. Avoid engaging or opening attachments, as this can expose you to viruses.
5.2 Block the Number
If you receive regular calls or messages from an unknown +63 number, block it in your phone’s settings or through WhatsApp.
5.3 Report the Scam
Report the number to the relevant authority in your country if you are terrorized by scam calls or have fallen victim to one. You can report scams to the following:
- United States: Federal Trade Commission
- United Kingdom: Action Fraud
- Germany: Bundesnetzagentur
- Canada: Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Australia: ACSC
- New Zealand: Netsafe
- India: Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
- Nigeria: Scamwatch Nigeria
- Philippines: ScamWatch Pilipinas
- UAE: MOI UAE
Numbers used by known fraudsters are often published online. Check the phone number against online lists by typing the full number (including the +63 prefix) into Google.
5.4 Use a Cybersecurity App
Consider subscribing to a privacy service to protect your online security. These apps can help remove your data from the web and provide additional protection.
- Aura: Offers all-in-one online safety, including identity theft protection, credit monitoring, antivirus, VPN, and more.
- Incogni: Specializes in removing your personal information from the web by scanning data brokers and requesting the removal of your data.
- Yesim: Offers virtual numbers for use on apps and sites, protecting your real mobile number.
6. What If It’s a Genuine Call?
If you missed a call from a +63 number and later realize it might be legitimate, you might want to call back. To do so affordably, consider these options:
- VoIP Calls: Use free apps that connect to WiFi, like WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype, Telegram, Messenger, or FaceTime.
- International Calling App: Use a low-cost-per-minute calling app like Rebtel, Boss Revolution, or Yolla.
- Other Means of Communication: Use email, WhatsApp, or even traditional mail. Be cautious about sending texts, as they can be expensive internationally.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about phone calls from the Philippines:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Why am I getting calls from the Philippines? | You may have business, personal, or travel connections to the Philippines, or it could be a scam. |
| How can I tell if a call from +63 is a scam? | Be wary of unsolicited offers, requests for personal information, or demands for upfront payments. |
| What should I do if I suspect a scam call? | Do not provide any information, hang up immediately, and block the number. Report the scam to the appropriate authorities. |
| Are all calls from the Philippines scams? | No, not all calls are scams. However, it’s important to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of the caller if you are unsure. |
| How can I make cheap calls to the Philippines? | Use VoIP apps, international calling apps, or other means of communication like email or WhatsApp. |
| What is the best way to protect myself from phone scams? | Be cautious, block suspicious numbers, report scams, and consider using a cybersecurity app. |
| Where can I report a phone scam? | You can report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States or to the relevant authority in your country. |
| Is it safe to call back a number with the +63 prefix? | Only if you are expecting a call from someone in the Philippines or have a legitimate reason to contact someone there. |
| Can scammers get my information just by calling me? | No, but if you answer the call and provide personal information, you could become a victim of fraud. |
| What are some common signs of a phone scam? | High-pressure tactics, requests for payment via unconventional methods, and inconsistencies in the caller’s story. |
8. Need More Answers? Ask WHAT.EDU.VN!
Still have questions or concerns about calls from the Philippines? “WHAT.EDU.VN” is here to provide fast, free answers to all your questions.
We understand the challenges of finding reliable information quickly. That’s why we’ve created a platform where you can ask any question and receive expert responses from knowledgeable individuals. Whether it’s about international phone codes, scam prevention, or any other topic, we’re here to help.
8.1 Why Choose “WHAT.EDU.VN”?
- Free Question Platform: Ask questions without any charges.
- Quick and Accurate Responses: We provide fast and reliable answers to your queries.
- Easy-to-Understand Information: Our answers are clear and accessible for everyone.
- Community Knowledge Sharing: Connect with others to exchange knowledge and insights.
- Free Consultation: Offers free consultations for any simple problems.
8.2 How to Get Started
- Visit our website: WHAT.EDU.VN
- Type your question in the search bar.
- Receive a quick and detailed answer from our experts.
8.3 Don’t Let Unanswered Questions Linger
At “WHAT.EDU.VN”, we believe everyone deserves access to clear and reliable information. Don’t let unanswered questions hold you back. Visit WHAT.EDU.VN today and get the answers you need, absolutely free!
Address: 888 Question City Plaza, Seattle, WA 98101, United States.
Whatsapp: +1 (206) 555-7890.
Website: what.edu.vn
We look forward to helping you find the answers you seek!
