Everything you need to know about area code 617 in Massachusetts
QUICK FACTS
Massachusetts
Eastern Time Zone
Original area code
Estimated residents served
Massachusetts
Primary code for this region
ABOUT THIS AREA CODE
Area code 617 serves Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts, covering some of America's most historic neighborhoods and prestigious universities including Harvard and MIT. It is one of the original 1947 area codes.
Phone numbers with the 617 area code follow the format (617) XXX-XXXX, where the next three digits represent the local exchange. The 617 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
If you receive a call from a 617 number that you don't recognize, you can search it using the lookup tool above. While the 617 area code legitimately serves millions of residents and businesses in the Boston area, scammers sometimes spoof local area codes to make their calls appear more trustworthy. Always verify unfamiliar numbers before returning calls or sharing personal information.
The Boston region served by area code 617 is one of the most significant areas in Massachusetts. As a primary geographic code, 617 has been the main identifier for this region since the original numbering plan was established.
For detailed information about any phone number in the 617 area code, including owner identification, carrier data, and spam reports, use our search tool above or visit one of our trusted lookup providers.
CITIES & COMMUNITIES
SPAM & SCAM ALERTS
These are frequently reported scam patterns from phone numbers using the 617 area code. Scammers often spoof area codes, so a call appearing to come from 617 may originate elsewhere.
Callers claim your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity and demand personal information to reactivate it.
Robocalls claim your car warranty is expiring and pressure you into purchasing expensive and unnecessary extended coverage.
Callers impersonate your electric or gas company, threatening immediate service disconnection unless payment is made by phone.
Stay Safe: Never share personal information with incoming callers. If suspicious, hang up and search the number above.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Area code 617 serves Boston, Massachusetts. Area code 617 serves Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts, covering some of America's most historic neighborhoods and prestigious universities including Harvard and MIT. It is one of the original 1947 area codes.
Area code 617 is in the Eastern timezone. Calls from 617 numbers originate from the Boston region.
Not necessarily. Area code 617 serves many people in Boston. However, scammers can spoof any area code. If you receive a suspicious call from a 617 number, search it above before calling back.
Area code 617 was one of the original area codes established in 1947. It serves as the primary geographic code for its region.
WHO CALLED ME
If you received an unknown call from a 617 number, use our dedicated lookup page to identify the caller and check for scam reports.
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