Area Code 401

So you got a call from a 401 number and you're wondering where it came from? That's Rhode Island. More specifically, 401 covers Providence and places like Newport.

This area code has been around for 78 years now - it was created in 1947. That makes it one of the original area codes from when the phone system was first being organized.

Here's Something Worth Knowing

Just because you see 401 on your caller ID doesn't guarantee the person is actually sitting in Rhode Island right now. Since 2003, people can take their phone numbers with them when they move. Your old college roommate who grew up near Providence? They might be living in Texas now but still using their 401 number.

That said, a 401 number usually means the person originally got their phone number somewhere in Rhode Island. Or they specifically chose a 401 number for business reasons - maybe to seem local to customers in the Providence area.

How to Dial a 401 Number

If you're calling from somewhere else in the country, just dial 1 + 401 + the 7-digit number. Calling from overseas? Use your country's exit code (usually 00 or +), then 1 for the US, then 401 and the rest.

Should You Be Worried About Scams?

Here's the honest truth: scammers can fake any area code they want, including 401. It's called "spoofing" and it's frustratingly common. So if you get a call from 401that feels off - someone asking for your Social Security number, claiming you won a prize, or demanding immediate payment for something - trust your gut and hang up.

Real businesses and government agencies don't cold call asking for sensitive info. If you're unsure whether a call was legit, look up the company's official number yourself and call them back.

Cities and Towns Using 401

The 401 area code serves quite a few places across Rhode Island. Here's where you might find someone with this area code: