Have you ever received a call from a 12-digit phone number and wondered why? You’re not alone.
Many people have experienced this phenomenon and are curious about the reasons behind it.
12 Digit Phone Numbers
12-digit phone numbers are not standard in most regions and could potentially be a part of specialized services, toll-free numbers, or a result of including country and area codes.
12-digit phone numbers could be from certain countries that have longer national number formats, incorporating country codes, area codes, and the local number.
Below we look deeper at the topic of 12-digit phone numbers, why you receive calls from them, and what you can do to protect yourself from unwanted calls.
Table of Contents
What are 12-digit phone numbers?
Before we delve into the reasons behind receiving calls from 12-digit phone numbers, let’s first understand what they are.
In most countries, phone numbers typically consist of 10 digits.
However, some countries, such as India, have introduced 12-digit phone numbers to accommodate their growing population and increasing demand for telephone services.
Reasons for receiving calls from 12-digit phone numbers
Now that we know what 12-digit phone numbers are, let’s explore the various reasons why you might receive calls from them:
- Telemarketing: One of the most common reasons for receiving calls from 12-digit phone numbers is telemarketing. Companies often use automated dialing systems to reach out to potential customers and promote their products or services. These systems generate random phone numbers, including 12-digit ones, to maximize their reach.
- Scam calls: Unfortunately, scam calls have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. Scammers may use 12-digit phone numbers to trick unsuspecting individuals into providing personal information or money. It’s important to be cautious and never share sensitive information over the phone.
- International calls: If you receive a call from a 12-digit phone number, it could be an international call. Some countries, like India, use 12-digit phone numbers for both domestic and international calls. These calls may be from friends, family, or businesses located abroad.
- Number spoofing: Number spoofing is a technique used by scammers to make it appear as though they are calling from a different phone number. They may use a 12-digit phone number to make their calls seem more legitimate or to confuse the recipient.
How to protect yourself from unwanted calls
Receiving calls from 12-digit phone numbers can be frustrating and potentially risky.
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from unwanted calls:
- Block the number: Most smartphones allow you to block specific phone numbers. If you consistently receive calls from a 12-digit number that you believe to be unwanted or suspicious, consider blocking it to prevent further calls.
- Use call-blocking apps: There are several call-blocking apps available for both Android and iOS devices. These apps can help identify and block unwanted calls, including those from 12-digit phone numbers.
- Register with the Do Not Call Registry: In some countries, such as the United States, there is a national Do Not Call Registry that allows you to opt out of telemarketing calls. Registering your phone number can help reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive.
- Be cautious with personal information: Never share sensitive personal information, such as your social security number or bank account details, over the phone. Legitimate organizations will not ask for this information over a phone call.
FAQs – 12 Digit Phone Numbers
1. Why am I receiving calls from 12-digit phone numbers?
There could be several reasons for receiving calls from 12-digit phone numbers, including telemarketing, scam calls, international calls, or number spoofing.
2. Are all calls from 12-digit phone numbers scams?
No, not all calls from 12-digit phone numbers are scams. Some may be legitimate international calls or telemarketing calls from reputable companies.
However, it’s important to exercise caution and be wary of providing personal information over the phone.
3. Can I block calls from 12-digit phone numbers?
Yes, most smartphones allow you to block specific phone numbers, including 12-digit ones. Blocking the number can help prevent further calls from that particular source.
4. How can I identify if a call from a 12-digit phone number is a scam?
Scammers often use various tactics to trick individuals. If you receive a call from a 12-digit phone number and the caller asks for personal information or money, it is likely a scam. Be cautious and avoid sharing any sensitive information.
5. Are 12-digit phone numbers only used in certain countries?
While most countries use 10-digit phone numbers, some countries, such as India, have introduced 12-digit phone numbers to accommodate their growing population and increasing demand for telephone services.
6. Can scammers use number spoofing with 12-digit phone numbers?
Yes, scammers can use number spoofing with 12-digit phone numbers.
Number spoofing is a technique used to make it appear as though the call is coming from a different phone number, often to make the call seem more legitimate or to confuse the recipient.
7. How can I protect myself from scam calls?
To protect yourself from scam calls, you can block the number, use call-blocking apps, register with the Do Not Call Registry (if available in your country), and be cautious with sharing personal information over the phone.
8. Are there any legal actions I can take against unwanted calls from 12-digit phone numbers?
The legal actions you can take against unwanted calls from 12-digit phone numbers may vary depending on your country’s laws and regulations.
In some cases, you can report the calls to your local authorities or the relevant telecommunications regulatory body.
9. Can I receive international calls from 12-digit phone numbers?
Yes, it is possible to receive international calls from 12-digit phone numbers.
Some countries, like India, use 12-digit phone numbers for both domestic and international calls.
10. Are there any benefits to using 12-digit phone numbers?
Using 12-digit phone numbers can provide benefits for countries with large populations and high demand for telephone services.
It allows for a larger pool of available phone numbers and helps meet the growing communication needs of the population.
Summary
Receiving calls from 12-digit phone numbers can be a common occurrence, with reasons ranging from telemarketing and scams to international calls and number spoofing.
It’s important to be cautious and protect yourself from unwanted calls by blocking numbers, using call-blocking apps, and being cautious with personal information.
By understanding the reasons behind these calls and taking appropriate measures, you can minimize the impact of unwanted calls and ensure a safer phone experience.
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