A new area code can arise suspicion and curiosity when it pops up on the caller ID. Is this a legitimate business? Is this a scammer? Where could it be coming from? Fret not as all these concerns will be addressed below.
Where does an area code 866 come from?
Toll free area codes don't come from a particular geographical area and are usually used by businesses and customer service purposes as a way for customers to reach out and voice their concerns. These numbers would place a charge on the recipient of the call instead of the caller even for long distance callers. The other area codes under the North American Numbering Plan include 800, 833, 844, 855, 877and 888. The Federal Communications Commissions is in charge of the toll free area codes.
How do I call an area code 866 number?
One might think that since a toll free area code has no particular location that one would be the same for all the rest but it is quite different. Toll free area codes are actually wired to different numbers from different locations and businesses so punching in 1-800 with a number would reach a different line than punching in 1-866 of the same number.
How do I get my own area code 866 number?
To obtain your own area code 866 number you would need to consult the Federal Communication Commission as they are in charge of handling toll free numbers with what they call RespOrgs or Responsible Organizations. These operate at a first come first serve basis and sometimes by means of auction so you’d have to act quickly if you decide to have an area code 866 for your business.
Why should I get an area code 866 for my business?
Getting an area code 866 for your own business would be beneficial since toll free numbers do not charge their callers rather charge the receiver of the call which would make customer service more convenient and cost efficient on the end of your customers. Toll free numbers are also a good way of being reached even from long distance since toll-free numbers are also covered in Canada and the Carribean so any inquiries from these countries would be welcome and free on their end.
You might be familiar with vanity numbers or those that go 1-866-FLOWERS. These can also be done and customized as a means of being creative and a name recall for your potential customers.
Is area code 866 a scam?
Confidence scams are quite popular in this day and age of increased mobile phone usage and online services. From the word itself, scammers obtain the confidence or trust of their potential victims by pretending to be customer service from banks and businesses trying to pry and fish for personal information.
Do not fall victim to scams. If someone claiming to be from a particular business calls you up, ask for the name of the business and quickly look it up. If discrepancies arise and you feel it to be suspicious, block the number immediately.
Is Area Code 866 Toll-Free?
Yes it is. It is toll-free for a customer to call an 866 area code number in a country within the North American Numbering Plan. This includes US, Canada and 22 other countries.
Toll-Free Area Codes
As well as the 866 area code, the other toll-free area codes are 800, 833, 844, 855, 877 and 888. They are toll-free within the USA, Canada and all countries utilising the North American Numbering Plan. They are commonly associated with customer service lines for companies, but can be used by other parties.
