July 3, 2025 · 4 minutes read
Key Takeaways About 506 Area Code Scams
The 506 area code is a legitimate New Brunswick area code serving the entire province.
Scammers frequently exploit the local familiarity of the 506 area code using spoofing techniques.
Common scams include credit card fraud, advance fee fraud, and location-based scam calls.
Table of Contents
- Common 506 Scam Tactics
- Recent Reports and Trends
- How to Protect Yourself
- Should I Call Back or Text Back?
- Summary Table: 506 Scam Tactics
- Popular 506 Scam Number Search
Common 506 Scam Tactics
Credit Card Fraud: Scammers posing as credit card companies (without specifying which one) to trick victims into revealing credit card numbers and other financial information.
Advance Fee Fraud: Callers promising a large sum of money (e.g., lottery winnings, inheritance) in exchange for an upfront payment or personal details.
Location-Based Scam Calls: Scammers using spoofed 506 numbers to target individuals specifically in New Brunswick, making the calls appear local and legitimate.
One-Ring Scams: Calls that ring only once, prompting you to call back, which can result in significant charges due to premium rates.
Recent Reports and Trends
The 506 area code has become synonymous with scammers trying to steal credit card numbers, posing as credit card companies.
Residents in New Brunswick are receiving location-based scam calls from 506 numbers, making them appear local.
There are reports of unrecognized 506 numbers making frequent calls, which people are advised not to answer.
How to Protect Yourself
Never respond or return calls from unknown numbers, especially those claiming to be from government agencies or companies.
Never share personal or financial information over the phone or via text unless you initiated the contact and verified the recipient.
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 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: 506 Scam Tactics
| Scam Type | Description | Risk/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Credit Card Fraud | Posing as credit card companies | Financial theft |
| Advance Fee | Promises money for upfront payment | Financial theft |
| Location-Based | Spoofed local calls targeting NB | Social engineering |
| One-Ring Call | Calls that ring once to prompt callback | Premium rate charges |
Final Advice
If you receive suspicious calls or texts from 506 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.
Popular 506 Scam Number Search
- (506) 522-4082
- (506) 200-0000
- (506) 300-0000
