July 3, 2025 · 4 minutes read
Key Takeaways About 604 Area Code Scams
The 604 area code is a legitimate British Columbia area code serving the Lower Mainland, including Vancouver.
Scammers frequently exploit the local familiarity of the 604 area code using spoofing techniques.
Common scams include robo calls with arrest warrants, text message scams, and one-ring scams.
Table of Contents
- Common 604 Scam Tactics
- Recent Reports and Trends
- How to Protect Yourself
- Should I Call Back or Text Back?
- Summary Table: 604 Scam Tactics
- Popular 604 Scam Number Search
Common 604 Scam Tactics
Robo Calls with Arrest Warrants: Automated calls claiming to be from government agencies (e.g., CRA) threatening arrest for unpaid taxes or other legal issues.
Text Message Scams: Texts from unknown numbers, often with generic greetings or suspicious links, leading to phishing attempts or malware downloads.
One-Ring Scams: Calls that ring only once, prompting you to call back, which can result in significant charges due to premium rates.
Neighbor Spoofing: Calls appearing to come from local numbers with the same first digits as yours, making them seem legitimate.
Recent Reports and Trends
An increase in robo calls from 604 area code numbers, often with threats of arrest, has been reported in Vancouver.
Scammers are frequently using spoofed numbers to appear as local 604 numbers, making it harder to identify fraudulent calls.
Reports indicate a rise in text message scams, including those asking for personal information or promoting suspicious apps.
How to Protect Yourself
Never respond or return calls from unknown numbers, especially those claiming to be from government agencies or companies.
Never text back to suspicious numbers, as this can confirm to scammers that your number is active.
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: 604 Scam Tactics
| Scam Type | Description | Risk/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Robo Calls | Automated calls threatening arrest | Financial theft, intimidation |
| Text Message | Generic texts leading to phishing attempts | Information theft |
| One-Ring Call | Calls that ring once to prompt callback | Premium rate charges |
| Neighbor Spoofing | Calls matching your number's prefix | Social engineering |
Final Advice
If you receive suspicious calls or texts from 604 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 604 Scam Number Search
- (604) 200-0000
- (604) 300-0000
- (604) 400-0000
