Area Code 588: Everything You Need To Know In 2023

Introduction

If you’ve ever received a call from an unknown number with the area code 588, you may be wondering where it’s from and who’s calling you. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about area code 588 in 2023. From its location to its history and what to do if you receive a call from it, we’ve got you covered.

What is Area Code 588?

Area code 588 is a relatively new area code that was introduced in 2018. It’s an overlay for the existing area codes 701 and 218 in North Dakota and Minnesota, respectively. Overlays are used when there is a shortage of phone numbers in a particular area code, and instead of creating a new area code, a new overlay area code is created.

Location of Area Code 588

As mentioned, area code 588 is an overlay for the existing area codes 701 and 218. It covers the same geographic area in North Dakota and Minnesota as those area codes. This includes cities such as Fargo, Grand Forks, and Bemidji. If you receive a call from an unknown number with the area code 588, it’s likely from someone in one of these cities.

Why Was Area Code 588 Created?

Area code 588 was created to address the shortage of phone numbers in the 701 and 218 area codes. With the increasing use of cell phones and other devices that require phone numbers, the demand for new phone numbers is growing. Rather than create a new area code entirely, an overlay was chosen to minimize the impact on existing customers.

What to Do If You Receive a Call from Area Code 588

If you receive a call from an unknown number with the area code 588, you should answer it as you would any other call. If it’s a legitimate call, the person on the other end will identify themselves and explain why they’re calling. If it’s a spam call or telemarketer, you can simply hang up or block the number.

Common Scams with Area Code 588

Unfortunately, as with any area code, there are scammers who try to use it to their advantage. One common scam is the IRS scam, where someone calls claiming to be from the IRS and demanding payment for outstanding taxes. Remember, the IRS will never call you demanding payment over the phone.

How to Avoid Scams with Area Code 588

To avoid falling victim to scams with area code 588, it’s important to be vigilant and never give out personal information over the phone. If someone calls claiming to be from a legitimate organization, hang up and call the organization directly to verify the call.

History of Area Code 588

Area code 588 was first introduced in 2018 as an overlay for the existing area codes 701 and 218. It was created to address the shortage of phone numbers in those area codes, and it covers the same geographic area as those area codes.

How to Look Up Area Code 588

If you’re not sure where area code 588 is located or who’s calling you from that area code, you can easily look it up online. There are many websites that offer free area code lookup services, including Whitepages and AnyWho.

Is Area Code 588 Toll-Free?

No, area code 588 is not a toll-free area code. Toll-free numbers typically begin with 800, 888, 877, or 866. If you receive a call from a toll-free number, the caller is typically responsible for the cost of the call, not the person receiving the call.

How to Get a Phone Number with Area Code 588

If you’re interested in getting a phone number with area code 588, you’ll need to contact your phone service provider. They’ll be able to tell you if numbers with that area code are available and how to obtain one.

Can I Keep My Old Phone Number with Area Code 588?

Yes, if you’re located in the 701 or 218 area codes and currently have a phone number with one of those area codes, you can keep your old number. Area code 588 is simply an overlay, so it doesn’t affect existing phone numbers.

Benefits of Area Code 588

One benefit of area code 588 is that it allows for more phone numbers to be available in the 701 and 218 area codes without having to create a new area code entirely. This minimizes the impact on existing customers and makes it easier for businesses and individuals to get a phone number in those area codes.

Drawbacks of Area Code 588

One potential drawback of area code 588 is that it may confuse people who aren’t familiar with overlays. Some people may be hesitant to answer a call from an unknown number with the area code 588, thinking it’s a scam or telemarketer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, area code 588 is a relatively new area code that was introduced in 2018 as an overlay for the existing area codes 701 and 218. It covers the same geographic area as those area codes and was created to address the shortage of phone numbers in those area codes. If you receive a call from an unknown number with the area code 588, remember to be vigilant and never give out personal information over the phone.