last update April 22, 2025 · 3 minutes read
Key Takeaways About 548 Area Code Scams
The 548 area code is an overlay area code serving Ontario.
Scammers use 548 numbers for various fraudulent activities, including phishing and scam calls.
Common scams include robocalls, spoofed calls, and text message scams.
Table of Contents
- Common 548 Scam Tactics
- Recent Reports and Trends
- How to Protect Yourself
- Should I Call Back or Text Back?
- Summary Table: 548 Scam Tactics
Common 548 Scam Tactics
Robocalls: Automated calls claiming to be from government agencies or companies.
Spoofed Calls: Calls appearing to come from local numbers with the same first digits as yours.
Text Message Scams: Fake texts claiming to be from legitimate services or organizations.
Recent Reports and Trends
Increase in text message scams using 548 numbers.
Scammers using local references to appear more legitimate.
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.
Summary Table: 548 Scam Tactics
| Scam Type | Description | Risk/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Robocalls | Automated calls claiming to be from government or companies | Financial theft |
| Spoofed Calls | Calls matching your number's prefix | Social engineering |
| Text Message Scams | Fake texts from legitimate services | Phishing |
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.
Final Advice
If you receive suspicious calls or texts from 548 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.
