By Jarren Ringle
Recently, I received the following text message… “Yesterday’s incident was so embarrassing. Thank you for helping me.” It came from a phone number in area code 929.
The phone number was not one I recognized. Area code 929 is a New York City area code that serves the boroughs of Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, and a few parts of Manhattan. It’s a relatively new area code.
So was this text message meant for me?
First of all, I don’t know anyone living in that area of New York. That by itself doesn’t prove anything because area codes follow the mobile phone number. My neighbor’s mobile phone number area code is 612 because he came from the Minneapolis, Minnesota area. So a text from the 929 area code could be from someone locally.
Next, did I help someone the day before? Maybe… but I didn’t remember anything special. I would likely remember something that might have been embarrassing. But again, something that embarrassed them might not embarrass me.
They didn’t identify me by name, nor did they identify themselves by name. So at this point, one could guess they sent the text to the wrong person. But did they?
A quick look at area code 929 using AI showed the following… “A notable aspect is the frequent association of 929 with spam calls, particularly those related to medical offers, imposter calls from government agencies, and debt reduction.”
OK, now things are starting to make sense. Who or whatever sent this text wanted me to respond. They didn’t really care who I am; they just wanted to initiate an interaction. The use of the word “embarrassing” is a trigger word that could create interest (I won’t go into details why).
They wanted me to interact. They wanted me to call or engage in a message exchange using something like WhatsApp. The game they are playing is a game of numbers. If they send this text to 1,000 people, they will likely have some engage in the dialog, and some of those end up being scammed or worse.
What did I do? I deleted the text and reported it as junk. I did not take the bait.
So was that text meant for me? Yes, it was.
Jarren Ringle is a member of SourcePoint and a volunteer instructor. SourcePointers come to Jarren for tutelage on their tablets, laptops, and the most popular of all devices – cell phones. He teaches various technology classes throughout the year including one-on-one sessions and group classes. Jarren also volunteers at the Delaware County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. With many years of project management experience in various technology fields, he enjoys helping others with technology.
Technology 1:1 Assistance: Jarren Ringle provides guidance on technology in a 45-minute time slot. Do you have questions regarding a cell phone, PC, laptop, or tablet? Share what the device is and what your question is upon registration so that Jarren can be better prepared to help. >> Schedule your 1:1