July 3, 2025 · 4 minutes read
Key Takeaways About 213 Area Code Scams
The 213 area code is a legitimate California area code serving downtown Los Angeles (USA), not Canada or Texas.
Scammers frequently exploit the local familiarity of the 213 area code using spoofing techniques for phishing.
213 text message scams often start with "Hello", "Are you busy?", or "Sup old man" to lure victims.
Table of Contents
- Common 213 Scam Tactics
- 213 Text Message Scam Examples
- Recent Reports and Trends
- How to Protect Yourself
- Should I Call Back or Text Back?
- Summary Table: 213 Scam Tactics
- Popular 213 Scam Number Search
Common 213 Scam Tactics
"Hello" Text Scams: Received a 213 text message? These often start with a generic greeting like "Hello", "Are you busy?", or "How are you doing?". They are designed to trigger a response and lead to phishing attempts or rapport-building for elaborate scams.
213 Area Code Scam Text Examples
If you receive a 213 area code scam text, it might look like one of these common reports:
- "Hello, are you busy?"
- "Sup old man, you still breathing?"
- "Hey old man, are you free tomorrow?"
- "U still breathing my old friend?"
- "Do you want steak or salmon?" (designed to look like a wrong number)
Note: These messages are often part of a 213 area code text message campaign targeting active phone numbers.
Wrong Number Texts: Scammers initiating conversations with "wrong number" texts, aiming to build a relationship and eventually lead to various fraudulent schemes, including investment scams or romance scams. This is a very common form of 213 area code text scam.
FaceTime/WhatsApp Video Call Scams: Scammers attempting to engage in video calls, often with a "weird phone takeover thing" that can compromise your device or personal information.
One-Ring Scams: Calls that ring only once, prompting you to call back, which can result in significant charges due to premium rates, especially if the call originates from an international number spoofed to appear as 213.
Recent Reports and Trends
The 213 area code is the top-reported area code for scam calls in California, with about two-thirds of scams originating from non-fixed VoIP numbers. Many users search for "where is area code 213" or "what state is area code 213" after receiving suspicious contact.
While 213 is a Los Angeles, California code, reports often include confusion with other regions like 213 area code Canada (Toronto) or 213 area code Texas. It is important to know that 213 is exclusively a Southern California area code.
There are frequent reports of random 213 texts asking if recipients are "signed" or engaging in other suspicious conversations using terms like "sup old man" or "you still breathing".
Scammers are increasingly using spoofed 213 numbers to send text messages and make calls, pretending to be someone else.
How to Protect Yourself
Never respond or return calls from unknown numbers, especially those claiming to be from government agencies or companies.
Never engage with "wrong number" texts or suspicious video call requests, as these are common scam tactics.
Be cautious of unsolicited offers or requests for personal information, even if they seem to come from a familiar area code.
Verify any suspicious activity by contacting the claimed organization directly through official channels, not through numbers provided in the suspicious call or text.
Enable call filtering or blocking features on your phone if available.
Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local authorities.
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: 213 Scam Tactics
| Scam Type | Description | Risk/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| 213 Text Message | "Hello", "Are you busy?", or "Old man" texts | Phishing, active number verification |
| Wrong Number | Initiating conversations with fake texts | Various fraudulent schemes |
| Video Call | Attempting video calls for phone takeover | Device compromise, information theft |
| One-Ring Call | Calls that ring once to prompt callback | Premium rate charges |
Final Advice
If you receive suspicious calls or texts from 213 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 Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Remember: Legitimate organizations won't pressure you for immediate action or payment.
