Area Code 473 Scam Calls
Area code 473 (Grenada) is so frequently used in one-ring scams that it is sometimes called the '473 scam'. The FTC and FCC both list it in their official consumer alerts. Calling back connects to a premium international line.
Reports
FTC official one-ring area code list
First documented
2014
Last active
2026-03
⚠ Area codes cannot identify individual scammers. Not all calls from this area code are fraudulent. This page documents patterns reported to the FTC and FCC for educational purposes only. Source: FTC consumer.ftc.gov and FCC fcc.gov official consumer alerts.
What the scam says
Your phone rings exactly once from a 473 number, then hangs up. The scammer banks on curiosity or the assumption it was a dropped legitimate call. Calling back connects to a premium-rate Caribbean line, charging $5+ per minute. Operators use hold music or fake messages to keep you on the line.
4 red flags
FTC and FCC both officially list 473 in their one-ring scam alerts
473 is the area code for Grenada — not a U.S. domestic number
One ring then hang-up is the defining characteristic — no voicemail left
Calling back triggers international per-minute charges billed as 'premium services'
What to do
Do not call back any 473 number you did not expect
Search the full number online before returning any unknown call
Ask your carrier to block outgoing international calls if you do not use them
Report to FCC at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov
Report this scam
Source
FTC consumer.ftc.gov; FCC fcc.gov; Reader's Digest / cybersecurity expert Joseph Steinberg 2025
https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/one-ring-phone-scam ↗Related scam numbers
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Frequently asked questions
Is area code 473 a scam?▼
Area code 473 (Grenada) is so frequently used in one-ring scams that it is sometimes called the '473 scam'. The FTC and FCC both list it in their official consumer alerts. Calling back connects to a premium international line.
Why is a 473 number calling me?▼
Your phone rings exactly once from a 473 number, then hangs up. The scammer banks on curiosity or the assumption it was a dropped legitimate call. Calling back connects to a premium-rate Caribbean line, charging $5+ per minute. Operators use hold music or fake messages to keep yo…
Should I call back a 473 number?▼
Do not call back any 473 number you did not expect Search the full number online before returning any unknown call
What country or region is area code 473?▼
Area code 473 (Grenada) is so frequently used in one-ring scams that it is sometimes called the '473 scam'.
Received a call or text from this number?
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Check your message →Source: FTC consumer.ftc.gov; FCC fcc.gov; Reader's Digest / cybersecurity expert Joseph Steinberg 2025
First documented: 2014 · Last active: 2026-03
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