Received a Call from a 320 Area Code? Here’s What It Could Mean

We already know you’re not answering that unknown number (at least, I hope not). I mean, most of us don’t even answer phone calls when we do know who is calling. This time though, your phone rang, and the number had a 320 area code.

Are you at least a little curious? Wondering what’s this all about? It turns out the 320 area code is linked to central Minnesota, and, realistically, there are a few possible reasons someone from that area could be trying to reach you (but, as with any call, there’s also a chance it’s just telemarketers or even a scam).

Ring! Ring! 

Unless the caller leaves a voicemail or follows up with a text, it’s time to take to the internet to find out what the call might have been. 

Local Businesses from Central Minnesota

If you have done any shopping or used the services of any company based in the Minnesota area (even if you made the purchase online), they likely have your contact information from that exchange.

• Retail Stores: Purchased some new fall clothes? It could be an order confirmation or delivery update. 
• Medical Testing: If you need any specialized testing or products, it could be a call to follow up on an appointment or review test results.
• Service Providers: Even if you’re not from the area, if there’s a specific item or service (electrician, plumber, or contractor) needed to work on something, it could be them on the line.

Customer Service Calls

Keep in mind that not all companies send out calls and communications from their base of operations. Sometimes, businesses use customer service centres, and one might be based in the 320 area code. If you’ve reached out with questions or complaints, the call might be about:

• Account-related questions
• Billing issues
• Responding to a request for tech support

Government Agencies

If you live in the United States, you could be hearing from an official government office in the 320 area code for things like:

• Notification of jury duty
• Tax information
• Public service announcements

Be cautious! Pretending to be a government official is a common scam so always verify the legitimacy before sharing any kind of information.

Telemarketers or Scammers

Unfortunately, as more and more people rely solely on texting and other forms of messaging, a lot of phone calls these days are spam. If your phone indicates a call from 320 area code, it could be telemarketers, robocalls, or even scam attempts. Watch out for:

• Fake promotions for businesses you may or may not shop at
• Phoney prize announcements (sorry but you didn’t win a cruise)
• Illegitimate scare tactics about unpaid bills or taxes

How to Check if the Call Is Legit

If you’re unsure about the call coming through, here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself before answering:

• Reverse Phone Lookup
• Contact the Business Directly
• Check for Online Reports

Look for Red Flags

If you do choose to answer a number with a 320 area code, be on the lookout for anything sketchy from the voice on the other end, including:

• Demands for payment that feel aggressive or urgent
• Requests for personal information (NEVER give your Social Insurance Number or credit card numbers over the phone)

If any of these happen, it’s likey a scam. Hang up and block the number on your phone. If you’re so inclined, you can report the number to the government. Click here to report it in Canada and click here to report it in the USA.