July 3, 2025 · 4 minutes read
Key Takeaways About 780 Area Code Scams
The 780 area code is a legitimate Alberta area code serving Northern Alberta, including Edmonton.
Scammers frequently exploit the local familiarity of the 780 area code using spoofing techniques.
Common scams include Telus promotion scams, "stupid" scam calls, and general spam calls.
Table of Contents
- Common 780 Scam Tactics
- Recent Reports and Trends
- How to Protect Yourself
- Should I Call Back or Text Back?
- Summary Table: 780 Scam Tactics
- Popular 780 Scam Number Search
Common 780 Scam Tactics
Telus Promotion Scams: Callers impersonating Telus representatives, offering fake promotions or loyalty rewards to extract personal information or financial details.
"Stupid" Scam Calls: A general term used by residents to describe persistent and annoying scam calls from 780 numbers, often involving threats or demands for money.
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
Many Edmonton residents are still receiving "stupid" scam calls from 780 numbers, often related to Telus promotions or other fraudulent schemes.
Alberta residents lost $5.4 million to scam calls last year, with 780 being one of the most targeted area codes for debt collection scams.
Reports indicate an increase in spam calls from 780-800-XXXX numbers, particularly from Edmonton.
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: 780 Scam Tactics
| Scam Type | Description | Risk/Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Telus Promotion | Fake offers from Telus representatives | Information/Financial theft |
| "Stupid" Calls | Persistent and annoying scam calls | Harassment, various frauds |
| 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 780 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 780 Scam Number Search
- (780) 463-5453
- (780) 800-XXXX
- (780) 680-XXXX
