last update April 22, 2025 · 3 minutes read
Key Takeaways About 250 Area Code Scams
The 250 area code is a legitimate British Columbia area code serving Victoria and surrounding areas.
Scammers exploit the local familiarity of the 250 area code using spoofing techniques.
Common scams include robocalls, neighbor spoofing, and utility scam.
Table of Contents
- Common 250 Scam Tactics
- Recent Reports and Trends
- How to Protect Yourself
- Should I Call Back or Text Back?
- Summary Table:250 Scam Tactics
Common 250 Scam Tactics
Robocalls: Automated calls claiming to be from government agencies or companies.
Neighbor Spoofing: Calls appearing to come from local numbers with the same first digits as yours.
Utility Scams: Fake calls or texts claiming to be from utility companies like BC Hydro.
Recent Reports and Trends
Increase in text message scams targeting British Columbia residents in 2024-2025.
Scammers using local references to appear more legitimate to British Columbia residents.
How to Protect Yourself
Never answer calls from unknown numbers.
Verify any suspicious activity by contacting the claimed organization directly.
Enable call filtering on your phone if available.
Report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Should I Call Back or Text Back?
Before responding to an unknown call or text, consider whether it's a legitimate contact. Check if the number matches any recent interactions or known contacts. If you're unsure, research the number or contact the organization directly through official channels.
Responding to scam calls or texts can lead to further fraudulent activities. By calling back or texting, you may confirm to scammers that your number is active, potentially leading to more targeted attacks. Additionally, calling back certain numbers can result in significant charges due to premium rates.
Summary Table: 250 Scam Tactics
| Scam Type | Description | Risk/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Robocalls | Automated calls claiming to be from government or companies | Financial theft |
| Neighbor Spoofing | Calls matching your number's prefix | Social engineering |
| Utility Scams | Fake calls/texts from utility companies | Payment fraud |
Final Advice
If you receive suspicious calls or texts from 250 numbers:
- Don't engage - Hang up or delete the message
- Never share personal or financial information
- Verify directly with the claimed organization
- Report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501
Remember: Legitimate organizations won't pressure you for immediate action or payment.
