Scammers using the 351 area code often pose as process servers or try to sell auto warranties. They threaten you with legal action or push worthless car service contracts to get your credit card information.
Look up any suspicious number using our scam and spam phone number lookup database. It includes over 29 million Do Not Call and robocall complaints reported to the Federal Trade Commission.
Getting calls from 351 area code and wonder if it's a scam? You're not alone. Scammers frequently spoof Massachusetts (Lowell, Lawrence, Haverhill) phone numbers to trick you into answering. Here are the most common area code 351 scams based on user comments:
Scammers are leaving voice messages for Massachusetts residents claiming they have papers to serve you regarding a legal matter. They will cite a fake "file number" to sound official and pressure you to call back immediately to "resolve the matter" and avoid being served.
Real process servers do not call ahead to warn you; their job is to deliver legal documents in person without prior notice. A phone call warning is a scare tactic used by scammers.
"Voice Messages stating to return call with file number. States they have papers to serve me if I don't resolve the matter. Been getting this call for months. It is a scam."
Callers are aggressively pushing extended vehicle warranties, sometimes offering a "$1000 rebate and oil change package" as a lure. These telemarketers become extremely rude and hostile if you refuse, with reports of them calling victims names like "bxxxx" or "bastaxx" before hanging up.
Legitimate businesses do not use harassment and verbal abuse as a sales tactic. Extreme aggression is a clear sign that you are dealing with a scam operation, not a real company.
"Very rude gentleman called and stated he was calling for a warranty on a vehicle I do not own. When I told him this he called me a bxxxx. Called back asked for a supervisor and he said he could help I said no I want a supervisor. He this called me a bastaxx."
These scams involve calls trying to scare you about "fraudulent activity" with your Social Security number. The caller ID may be spoofed to look official, displaying names like "The Benefits Department" or "SPAM? BENEFITS" to trick you into answering.
The Social Security Administration will not call you to threaten you about your benefits or number. They primarily communicate via U.S. mail for official business.
"Call from ?(351) 205-1222? trying to scare me about fraudulent activity with my SS number"
Robocalls are targeting residents with messages about an "update on my federal loans." These calls are designed to sound helpful but are scams, often reaching people who paid off their student loans years ago.
Official information about federal student loans comes directly from the U.S. Department of Education or your designated loan servicer, not through unsolicited robocalls.
"It was a female voice giving me an update on my federal loans; I paid off my loans in 2012."
This scam uses a robocall claiming to be from "ppc care maintenance service." The recording warns that your subscription will auto-renew and charge you unless you call a number to cancel, which is a trick to connect you with a live scammer.
Legitimate companies do not use threatening robocalls for subscription management. Renewals are typically handled via email or through your online account portal, not by phone.
"also got a robocall from that number 351 400-2007. Claims it's 'ppc care maintenance service' and to call to cancel my subscription or it will autorenew."
Scammers are calling and claiming to be from the "Amazon fraud protection service." They may try to trick you into giving up personal information by referencing an Amazon credit card, even one you don't actually have.
Amazon's official policy states they will never ask for payment information or sensitive account details over the phone. All legitimate security notifications will come through email or the secure message center in your account.
"I called the number back and they claim to be from Amazon fraud protection service, but I don’t have an Amazon credit card."
This scam preys on your goodwill by placing fraudulent calls claiming to be raising money for veterans. They use the respect people have for service members to try and solicit donations over the phone for a non-existent or fake charity.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not solicit donations from the general public via phone calls. If you want to support veterans, find a reputable, well-established charity and donate directly through its official website.
"Fraudulent VA call claiming raising money for Vets"
Frequently Asked Questions about Area Code 201 Scams and Spam Calls
No, area code 351 is not a scam. It's a legitimate telephone area code serving millions of legitimate residents and businesses in Massachusetts, United States. Area code 351 is a general purpose code that has been in service since May 2, 2001.
Most common 351 scam types are:
You're likely experiencing "Neighbor Spoofing." Scammers fake their caller ID to display local or familiar numbers. If you live in or near Massachusetts, or have a 351 phone number yourself, scammers know you're more likely to answer what appears to be a local call.
Calling back to unknown spam number may incur premium charges or at least confirm your phone number is active and lead to more spam and scam calls.
There are three main ways to reduce spam calls:
It's definitely possible to block all specific area code phone numbers. However, we do not recommend this option because it would also prevent friends, family, doctors, and legitimate businesses from reaching you.
Other Massachusetts area codes where scam and spam calls are regularly reported: