Unmasking 'Calls From Iran': What You Need To Know

Timmy Blanda 21 Jun 2025

Have you recently received an unexpected phone call from an unfamiliar international number, perhaps one starting with the +98 country code? If so, you're not alone. A growing number of individuals worldwide are reporting strange, unsolicited calls from Iran, often characterized by immediate hang-ups or suspicious silences. These incidents range from mere annoyances to potential scam attempts, raising questions and concerns among recipients. Understanding the nature of these calls, how to identify them, and what steps to take is crucial in today's interconnected yet often vulnerable digital landscape.

The phenomenon of unsolicited international calls is not new, but recent reports specifically highlighting calls from Iran have drawn particular attention. From brief, unsettling rings to automated voices, these calls can leave recipients feeling confused, uneasy, and wondering about their origin and purpose. Whether you're a regular international caller or someone who rarely interacts with numbers outside your own country, recognizing the patterns and potential risks associated with these mysterious pings is essential for protecting your privacy and security.

Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the recent surge in calls from Iran, how to handle them, and what precautions you should take.

The Rise of Unwanted 'Calls from Iran'
Decoding the +98 Country Code: What It Means
- Legitimate Reasons for a +98 Call
- Identifying Potential Scams and Spam
The Alarming Spike: Post-October 7 Reports
Understanding the Tactics: From Robo-Calls to Panic Spreading
Protecting Yourself: Don't Call Back and Other Essential Tips
How to Make Legitimate 'Calls to Iran' (If You Need To)
- Dialing Instructions from the US/Canada
- Cost-Effective Solutions for International Calls
What to Do If You've Received a Suspicious Call
The Broader Context: International Scam Call Trends

The Rise of Unwanted 'Calls from Iran'

Imagine this scenario: You're driving, your phone rings, and you instinctively answer. A quick glance reveals a strange number, and as soon as you pick up, the line goes dead. You check the number again, and it starts with +98. "Weird," you think, "that was a call from Iran." This exact experience was reported by a user who received a call from +98 65 5382 7468. This isn't an isolated incident; user reports of spam calls from Iran are becoming increasingly common.

The data supports this trend. Of the last 90 days, June 7, 2025, was noted as the day with the highest activity, registering 6 reports for phone numbers bearing the country code +98. This indicates a consistent, albeit fluctuating, pattern of unsolicited contact. These aren't just random occurrences; they point to a broader issue of international spam and potential scam operations originating from or routed through Iran.

Many users report similar experiences: a call comes in, often from a number with an Iranian area code, and it hangs up almost immediately, sometimes even before a human can answer. One user described how a spam call from Iran hung up as soon as their Google Assistant answered. This behavior is characteristic of "Wangiri" scams or robocalling operations designed to verify active phone numbers or entice recipients to call back, often to premium-rate lines.

Decoding the +98 Country Code: What It Means

The prefix +98 is unequivocally the country code for Iran. Just like +1 signifies the USA or Canada, +44 for the UK, or +91 for India, +98 is the digital identifier for calls originating from Iran. Understanding this basic fact is the first step in deciphering the nature of an incoming call.

Legitimate Reasons for a +98 Call

It's important to remember that not every call from Iran is malicious. There are entirely legitimate reasons why you might receive a call from a +98 number:

Family or Friends: If you have loved ones, friends, or colleagues living or working in Iran, they might be trying to reach you.
Business Contacts: If you conduct international business, particularly with entities in the Middle East, a call from an Iranian contact could be part of a legitimate transaction or communication.
Travel-Related: If you've recently traveled to Iran or have upcoming plans, a travel agency, hotel, or tour operator might be calling to confirm details.
Online Services: Some online services or platforms might have support or verification systems that use international numbers, though this is less common for direct calls.

In these cases, you would typically be expecting the call or recognize the number. The key differentiator is expectation and context.

Identifying Potential Scams and Spam

As with all unfamiliar international numbers, if you're getting a call from a number starting with +98 but don't know the person or aren't at all expecting contact from anyone in Iran, you might be getting an advertising call or even an attempted scam call. Consumer protection organizations are increasingly warning about the threat of various international scam calls, including those placed via WhatsApp or traditional phone lines.

Numbers beginning with codes like +92 (Pakistan), +84 (Vietnam), +62 (Indonesia), +1 (USA), or +98 (Iran) are often tied to scam operations and can lead to costly calls if you return them. These scams often rely on curiosity or fear to trick recipients into calling back, incurring high per-minute charges that benefit the scammers.

The Alarming Spike: Post-October 7 Reports

A particularly concerning detail from user reports is the observation that "reports of spam calls from numbers with Iranian area codes spiked after October 7." This date is significant, aligning with major geopolitical events that could potentially be linked to such activities. While correlation does not always imply causation, the timing raises questions about the intent behind these calls.

One user, who is Jewish, even wondered if the calls might have something to do with their identity, expressing concern about being "overly paranoid." While there's no direct evidence provided in the data to confirm this specific link, the idea that these calls could be more than just financial scams is a chilling thought. Historically, mass calls have been used as a tool for psychological warfare or to spread panic. For instance, during the war with Iraq in the 1980s, government opponents made similar mass calls into Iran, aiming to spread panic. This historical precedent suggests that telecommunications can be weaponized for purposes beyond financial gain, adding a layer of complexity to the recent surge in calls from Iran.

This potential for politically motivated or fear-inducing calls elevates the concern beyond mere financial scams, touching upon YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) principles by impacting mental well-being and security.

Understanding the Tactics: From Robo-Calls to Panic Spreading

The methods employed by those making these unsolicited calls from Iran vary but often share common characteristics aimed at exploiting human curiosity or vulnerability. The most prevalent tactic is the "Wangiri" scam, where a single ring or a very short call is made, designed to entice the recipient to call back. When the recipient calls back, they are often connected to a premium-rate service that charges exorbitant per-minute fees, which are then shared with the scammer.

Another tactic involves automated or robotic voices. One woman trying to call her mom in Iran reported that a robotic voice answered the phone. Several Iranians living abroad have also reported getting strange, robotic voices when they attempted to call their loved ones. While this specific instance might be related to network issues or automated systems on the Iranian side, it highlights the use of non-human interaction in telecommunications from the region, which can also be leveraged by scammers.

Beyond financial exploitation, there's the more insidious possibility of calls designed to spread panic or collect information. The historical parallel of mass calls used during the Iran-Iraq war to sow discord suggests that phone lines can be a vector for psychological operations. While it's crucial not to jump to conclusions, the spike in calls after specific geopolitical events, combined with the immediate hang-up behavior, could indicate attempts to verify active numbers for future targeted campaigns, or simply to create a sense of unease.

It's also worth noting that the phenomenon of unsolicited international calls isn't exclusive to Iran. In February 2018, the website Triple Hack reported an uptick in these calls from Papua New Guinea, and many people routinely get missed calls from India, Iran, or Mexico. This indicates a global network of scam or spam operations, with different countries becoming hotspots at various times. The common thread is the use of international prefixes to lend an air of mystery or urgency, encouraging recipients to engage.

Protecting Yourself: Don't Call Back and Other Essential Tips

The most critical piece of advice when dealing with unsolicited calls from Iran or any other unfamiliar international number is simple: **don't call back.** As tempted as you might be to find out who called or why, calling back is precisely what these scammers want you to do. It's how they make their money, by connecting you to expensive premium-rate lines. Even if the call was just a mistake, calling back risks incurring charges.

Here are essential tips to protect yourself:

Avoid Answering Unknown International Numbers: If you don't recognize the country code or the number, and you're not expecting an international call, it's best to let it go to voicemail.
Do Not Call Back: This cannot be stressed enough. Calling back is the primary mechanism for these scams to profit.
Block the Number: Most smartphones allow you to block specific numbers. If you receive a suspicious call, add the number to your blocked list immediately.
Report the Number: While individual reports might seem insignificant, they contribute to larger databases used by consumer protection agencies and telecom providers to identify and shut down scam operations. Report the number to your mobile carrier or relevant consumer protection organizations in your country.
Be Wary of Voicemails: If a suspicious call leaves a voicemail, listen carefully but do not call back any numbers mentioned in the message unless you can independently verify them. Scammers often leave urgent-sounding messages to prompt a callback.
Protect Personal Information: Never share personal or financial information over the phone with someone you don't know or trust, especially if they initiated the call.
Use Call Blocking Apps: Consider using third-party call-blocking applications that can identify and filter out known spam numbers.

These proactive measures significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these types of scams, safeguarding both your money and your peace of mind.

How to Make Legitimate 'Calls to Iran' (If You Need To)

While caution is paramount when receiving unsolicited calls from Iran, there are many legitimate reasons why you might need to connect with someone in Iran. Fortunately, making international calls has become easier and more affordable than ever. Understanding the correct dialing procedures and leveraging cost-effective services can ensure your calls go through without hassle or exorbitant fees.

Dialing Instructions from the US/Canada

To call Iran from the U.S. or Canada, just follow these dialing instructions:

Dial 011: This is the U.S./Canada exit code, which you dial first to make an international call.
Next, dial 98: This is the country code for Iran.
Then, dial the area code: Iranian area codes vary in length. For example, Tehran's area code is 21.
Finally, dial the local phone number:
- For mobile numbers in Iran, they typically start with 9. So, to call a mobile number in Iran from abroad, you would dial +98 9 XXX (rest of the number).
- For fixed lines, the number of digits for the area code and the phone number will vary, but in most cases, the sum of digits of the area code and the phone number will be consistent for a given region.

So, a complete dialing sequence from the U.S. would look like: 011 + 98 + Area Code + Local Number.

Cost-Effective Solutions for International Calls

Traditional international calling can be expensive, but several services offer cheap or even free ways to make calls to Iran:

VoIP Services (e.g., PopTox, MyTello):
- PopTox: You can make free calls to Iran using PopTox. All you need is an internet connection. Simply enter the phone number using the dial pad on their website and click on "call." You can make free calls to Iranian mobile and landline phones from a PC, Mac, or smartphone.
- MyTello: By using MyTello, you can make cheap calls to Iran. Their service works from any landline or cell phone without changing your contract. You can save up to 90% on your calling costs. They even offer a first free trial call to Iran; you just need to create a free trial account.
International Calling Apps (e.g., Rebtel): Rebtel is an example of a service that offers cheap international calls. It "piggybacks on Iran’s local phone lines," meaning you can always make cheap international calls with the same call quality you would get if you were making a local call. This helps say goodbye to dropped calls and crappy connections.
WhatsApp/Other Messaging Apps: While consumer protection organizations are warning about the threat of WhatsApp scam calls being placed, WhatsApp itself remains a popular tool for legitimate calls to Iran if both parties have an internet connection. However, exercise caution and only answer calls from known contacts.

These services provide reliable and affordable alternatives for staying connected with loved ones or business associates in Iran, bypassing the high rates of traditional international calling plans.

What to Do If You've Received a Suspicious Call

If you've inadvertently taken a suspicious call from Iran, or if you've received multiple such calls, here's a step-by-step guide on what actions to take:

Do Not Engage: If you answer and hear silence, a strange voice, or an immediate hang-up, simply end the call. Do not say anything or try to interact.
Do Not Call Back: Reiterate this crucial point. Calling back validates your number as active and can lead to charges.
Block the Number: Use your phone's built-in features to block the incoming number. This prevents future calls from that specific number.
Report to Your Carrier: Contact your mobile service provider (e.g., MCI Mobile, MTN Mobile, Other Mobile Carriers). They can often track patterns of suspicious activity and may be able to block numbers at a network level or provide advice.
Report to Authorities/Consumer Protection: File a report with your national consumer protection organization or relevant telecommunications regulatory body. In the U.S., this might be the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). These reports help build a database of known scam numbers and tactics.
Be Vigilant: After receiving a suspicious call, be extra cautious about any other unexpected calls, texts, or emails you receive. Scammers often work in conjunction, and one type of contact might be a precursor to another.
Check Your Phone Bill: Regularly review your phone bill for any unauthorized charges, especially those related to international calls or premium services. If you find any, dispute them immediately with your carrier.

Taking these steps helps protect you individually and contributes to the broader effort of combating international phone scams.

The Broader Context: International Scam Call Trends

The phenomenon of suspicious calls from Iran is part of a larger global trend of international phone scams. Scammers exploit the anonymity and reach of telecommunications networks to target individuals across borders. These operations are sophisticated, often employing automated dialing systems, spoofed numbers, and psychological manipulation to achieve their goals, whether it's financial gain, data harvesting, or even spreading misinformation.

The patterns observed with calls from Iran—the immediate hang-ups, the spike after certain events, the potential for high charges—are mirrored in scam calls originating from other countries. The "Wangiri" scam, for instance, has been reported globally, with calls originating from various obscure international numbers. Consumer protection organizations worldwide are constantly issuing warnings about these threats, urging the public to exercise extreme caution.

The rise of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology has made it easier and cheaper for scammers to make large volumes of international calls, blurring the lines between legitimate communication and malicious intent. While services like Rebtel and MyTello offer legitimate and affordable ways to connect internationally, the same technology can be misused by nefarious actors.

Staying informed about these trends, understanding the common tactics, and adhering to best practices for phone security are your best defenses against falling victim to these pervasive and evolving threats. The digital world is constantly changing, and so are the methods of those who seek to exploit it. Vigilance and informed decision-making are key to navigating this complex landscape safely.

Conclusion

The recent uptick in unsolicited calls from Iran, characterized by strange numbers, immediate hang-ups, and a spike following significant geopolitical events, underscores a growing concern in our interconnected world. While some calls may be legitimate, the overwhelming majority of these unexpected pings are likely spam or scam attempts designed to exploit curiosity or sow unease. We've seen how the +98 country code identifies Iran, and how historical precedents suggest that phone calls can even be used to spread panic.

The most crucial takeaway is to exercise extreme caution: **do not call back** unfamiliar international numbers. Your best defense lies in blocking suspicious numbers, reporting them to your carrier and authorities, and being vigilant about your phone activity. For legitimate communication with Iran, modern, cost-effective services like PopTox, MyTello, and Rebtel offer reliable alternatives to traditional, expensive international calls.

By understanding the tactics of these unsolicited calls and taking proactive steps, you can protect yourself from potential financial loss and maintain your peace of mind. Stay informed, stay safe, and remember that when in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution. Have you received similar calls? Share your experiences in the comments below, or share this article to help others stay aware and protected!

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