Scam calls from 304 numbers

Patterns documented by FTC/FCC · numbering data as of July 28, 2026.

If an unknown 304 number keeps calling, treat the area code as scenery: fraud operations spoof Charleston numbers precisely because they look local and familiar. These are the documented patterns worth checking against.

The same territory answers to 681 as well, so spoofers rotate codes within the overlay complex to defeat simple blocking.

If any of these match a call you received, report it: the FTC's fraud reports and the FCC's complaint center are the channels that feed enforcement.

Documented patterns behind 304-looking calls

Neighbor spoofing

A form of caller ID spoofing in which the falsified number matches your own area code and often your NXX prefix, so the call appears to come from a nearby household and feels safe to answer.

Signs: the incoming number shares your area code and first three digits of your local number; answering leads to a robocall, silence, or a sales/scam pitch. Full pattern →

Prize / lottery / sweepstakes scam

You are told you won a lottery or sweepstakes — often one you never entered — but must first pay 'taxes' or 'fees' to claim the prize. Real prizes never require upfront payment.

Signs: 'you've won' calls for contests you never entered; upfront fees, taxes, or customs charges to release winnings. Full pattern →

Fake debt collection

Callers try to collect debts you do not owe or that do not exist, using threats and refusing to provide written validation. Some impersonate law firms or 'process servers'.

Signs: refusal to send written validation of the debt; threats of arrest or lawsuits for a debt you don't recognize. Full pattern →

Auto warranty robocall

Prerecorded calls about your car's 'expiring warranty' push overpriced or worthless service contracts. The FCC has taken enforcement action against major auto-warranty robocall operations.

Signs: recording mentions 'your vehicle's extended warranty' without naming your car; pressure to 'press 1' to speak with a 'warranty specialist'. Full pattern →

Charity fraud calls

Fundraising calls for fake charities, or for real-sounding causes where almost nothing reaches the beneficiaries. These spike after disasters and around holidays.

Signs: high-pressure appeals tied to a recent disaster; vague answers about how donations are used. Full pattern →

Reporting channels

FAQ

Are all calls from 304 numbers scams?

No — 785 real prefixes serve Charleston subscribers. The point is that the displayed code alone proves nothing either way; judge the call's content and verify independently.

Can I block the whole 304 area code?

Some phones and carrier apps allow prefix-based blocking, but scammers rotate codes (including overlays 681), so blanket blocking mostly costs you legitimate calls. Silencing unknown callers works better.

Where do I report a scam call from a 304 number?

File at ReportFraud.ftc.gov (fraud and losses) and the FCC Consumer Complaint Center (spoofing and robocalls). Include the displayed number, date and what was said.