The 938 area code is being used for fake delivery notifications and tax relief scams. Fraudsters send confusing texts to get you to click malicious links or pay for fake tax services.
Scam & Spam Phone Number Lookup:
Our database contains over 25 million Do Not Call and robocall complaints reported to the FTC.
Scammers text Northern Alabama residents fake DoorDash delivery notifications with suspicious links like "drd.sh" for orders they never placed. Some callers ask if you want a non-existent order left at your door, while others are legitimate drivers using DoorDash's masked number system from 938 numbers. Aggressive callers may accuse you of "leaving a crappy tip" or fish for personal information rather than confirming real orders. These scammers use the links you click to steal your login information and payment details. DoorDash does use masked local numbers to protect privacy, but legitimate drivers only contact you about orders you actually placed.
"I received a text from 938-888-7448 stating My order had been dropped off and to see where it was left click the link. https://drd.sh/XRSOs8KuCJAD6o9r/ I hadn't ordered anything. I did not click on the link."
A woman named "Barbara" leaves voicemails claiming she's from the "national tax help center" with "great news" about your "back income tax debt." She insists it's "imperative" you call her back at toll-free number 866-570-4201 to discuss your "elimination options." The scammers use the personal information you provide to open credit accounts in your name or steal your identity. The IRS contacts people through mail, not through third-party "help centers" promising to eliminate debt.
"Message left- 'Hey it's Barbara I'm calling you from national tax help center you can give me a call back at 866-570-4201 it's regarding your back income tax debt and I've got some great news for you... it's imperative I speak to you soon as possible...'"
Callers from local 938 numbers claim to be from federal agencies and ask for your Social Security number and Medicare number over the phone. They use these numbers to file fake tax returns in your name, open credit accounts, or steal your medical benefits. Social Security Administration and Medicare never call you unexpectedly to ask for your personal numbers.
"Tried to get my ssn and medicare #"
Scammers send texts asking for people like "Dolly" about an account or call repeatedly from "An Agency" asking for information about a "fictitious person." They use any information you confirm to build profiles for identity theft or to verify that your number is active for more scam calls. Real debt collectors must identify their company and provide written proof of debt upon request.
"Received text message stating they need to speak to Dolly today about her account. There is no Dolly at my residence."
Automated recordings pitch "any & all kinds of insurance" or vehicle "warranties and protection plans" to 938 numbers. Even when you press 9 to be removed from their list, the calls continue from different numbers. When you press any button on these robocalls, they mark your number as active and sell it to more scammers, resulting in even more unwanted calls.
"I missed their call. Called it back and it was the health insurance network whatever....I have hit the #9 option to be put on their list 7 times. Each call a different number."
No, area code 938 is not a scam. It's a legitimate telephone area code serving millions of legitimate residents and businesses in Alabama, United States. Area code 938 is a general purpose code that has been in service since July 10, 2010.
You're likely experiencing "Neighbor Spoofing." Scammers fake their caller ID to display local or familiar numbers. If you live in or near Alabama (Huntsville, Decatur, Madison), or have a 938 phone number yourself, scammers know you're more likely to answer what appears to be a local call.
Other Alabama area codes where scam and spam calls are regularly reported: