Have you ever received a call from a number starting with “213” and wondered, “Which country is this?” The answer is more complex than you might think. The 213 code has a dual identity that often causes confusion. It can be the country code 213, which belongs to Algeria, or it can be the iconic area code for downtown Los Angeles. The key difference is the plus sign: +213 is the international code for Algeria, while (213) is the area code for LA.
This guide will clear up all the confusion. You will learn how to distinguish between the two, how to properly dial each one, and how to protect yourself from common scams associated with both numbers. Whether you’re trying to connect with someone in North Africa or understand a call from Southern California, this article has you covered.
The Core Explanation: What is the 213 Code?
To put it simply, the identity of the “213” code depends entirely on its context.
- The +213 Country Code: When you see a number formatted as +213, it signifies the international country code for Algeria. This is the prefix you must use to call or message someone in the North African nation. If you’ve received a missed call starting with +213, it originated from an Algerian phone number.
- The 213 Area Code: When you see a number formatted as (213) XXX-XXXX within the United States, it represents the area code for downtown Los Angeles, California. This code is part of the North American Numbering Plan and is used for local and national calls within the US.
Understanding this distinction is the first step to correctly identifying the origin of a call and avoiding costly mistakes.
Deep Dive: The +213 Country Code for Algeria
Which Country is +213? Your Definitive Answer
The international code +213 is the official country calling code for the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria. This code is assigned and managed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), ensuring that calls from anywhere in the world are correctly routed to Algeria. So, if you’re wondering, “what country is 213?” or searching for “+213 which country code,” the definitive answer is Algeria. The country that uses 213 as its international identifier is a vast and culturally rich nation in North Africa.
A Snapshot of Algeria: Geography, Capital, and Culture
Algeria is the largest country in Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Sahara Desert, which covers a significant portion of its territory. Its capital and largest city is Algiers, a historic port known for its stunning white buildings and ancient Casbah.
The official languages are Arabic and Tamazight (Berber), but French is also widely spoken due to the country’s colonial history. This linguistic diversity is important for anyone doing business or connecting with family in the region. The culture is a vibrant blend of Amazigh, Arab, Ottoman, and French influences.
| Attribute | Detail |
| Official Name | People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria |
| Capital | Algiers |
| Population | Approximately 44 million |
| Official Languages | Arabic, Tamazight (Berber) |
| Currency | Algerian Dinar (DZD) |
| Time Zone | Central European Time (UTC+1) |
| Calling Code | +213 |
Understanding Algeria’s Telephone Numbering Plan
Algerian phone numbers follow a specific structure. The full international format is the +213 country code followed by a 9-digit national number. This 9-digit number typically starts with a prefix that identifies the mobile operator.
- Mobile Prefixes (after +213):
- 5: Ooredoo Algérie
- 6: Mobilis
- 7: Djezzy
- Landline Area Codes: Landline numbers have a two-digit area code after the +213. For example, the area code for the capital, Algiers, is 21.
When dialing from outside Algeria, you must drop the leading “0” from the local number. This “0” is a trunk prefix used only for calls made within the country.
How to Call Algeria from Anywhere in the World: A Step-by-Step Guide
Placing a call to Algeria is simple if you follow these steps:
- Dial the International Exit Code: From the US and Canada, this is 011. From most of Europe, it’s 00. On a mobile phone, you can simply use the + symbol.
- Dial Algeria’s Country Code: Enter 213.
- Drop the Leading Zero: If the Algerian number you have starts with a 0, do not dial it.
- Dial the Mobile Prefix or Area Code: Enter the 1-digit mobile prefix (5, 6, or 7) or the 2-digit landline area code.
- Dial the Subscriber Number: Dial the remaining digits of the phone number.
Example: To call a Mobilis mobile number from the US, you would dial: 011-213-6XX-XXX-XXX.
Deep Dive: The 213 Area Code for Los Angeles, USA
Where is the 213 Area Code Located? The Heart of Los Angeles
Separate from the international domain, the 213 area code serves the bustling urban heart of Los Angeles, California. It covers Downtown LA (DTLA), Chinatown, Hollywood, Koreatown, and several other central neighborhoods. It is one of the most famous and geographically smallest area codes in the United States.
A Brief History of an Iconic Area Code
The 213 area code is one of the original codes created in 1947 and initially covered all of Southern California. As the population boomed, it was split multiple times, creating new area codes like 714 (Orange County), 818 (San Fernando Valley), and 310 (Westside/South Bay). In 1998, a final split created the 323 area code, leaving 213 to serve only the downtown core.
The 213/323/738 Overlay: What It Means for LA Residents
Due to high demand, the boundary between the 213 and 323 area codes was removed in 2017, creating an “overlay.” This means new numbers in the same geographic area can be assigned either code. A third overlay code, 738, is planned for the future. For residents, this means 10-digit dialing is mandatory for all local calls. You must always dial the area code, even when calling a neighbor.
The Cultural Significance of the 213 Area Code
The 213 area code is more than just a number; it’s a cultural symbol of Los Angeles. It’s frequently referenced in music and movies to represent the city’s vibrant and gritty urban identity. For businesses, having a 213 number is a mark of prestige, signaling an established presence in the economic heart of LA.
Security Alert: Identifying and Avoiding 213 Scams
Unfortunately, both the +213 country code and the 213 area code are used in different types of phone scams.
The +213 “Wangiri” Scam: The One-Ring Missed Call
Scams involving the +213 country code for Algeria often use the “Wangiri” (one-ring-and-cut) method.
- The Call: Scammers use an autodialer to make a call that rings only once and then hangs up, leaving a missed call on your phone.
- The Bait: Your curiosity is piqued by the unknown international number.
- The Trap: You call the number back, which connects you to a premium-rate line that charges exorbitant per-minute fees. The scammers profit from these charges.
Scams from 213 Area Code Numbers: Local Imposters
Scammers use the familiarity of the Los Angeles 213 area code to build false trust. They often “spoof” the number, making it appear local when it could be coming from anywhere in the world. Common scams include:
- Imposter Scams: Callers pretend to be from the IRS, a utility company, or tech support to trick you into sending money.
- Phishing Texts: You might receive a vague text like “Hi, how are you?” from a 213 number. Replying confirms your number is active, opening you up to further scam attempts.
Actionable Steps to Protect Yourself
- NEVER Call Back Unknown International Numbers: If you don’t recognize a number with the +213 code, do not call it back. If it’s important, they will leave a message.
- Do Not Engage with Suspicious Texts: Delete and block texts from unknown 213 numbers. Any reply signals that your number is active.
- Be Wary of Urgent Demands: Legitimate organizations will not demand immediate payment over the phone with gift cards or wire transfers.
- Block and Report: Block suspicious numbers and report them to the FTC and FCC.
The 213 Code in the Digital Age
Using a +213 Algerian Number with WhatsApp
A phone number with the 213 country code for WhatsApp can be used to create and verify an account on the platform. The registration process for WhatsApp in Algeria is standard: you select Algeria (+213), enter your 9-digit mobile number (without the leading 0), and verify. Many users search for “which country code is 213 in whatsapp” or “indicatif 213 whatsapp” when setting up their accounts. It’s important to be aware that scammers can also use virtual +213 numbers to create anonymous WhatsApp accounts for fraudulent purposes.
Business Applications: Acquiring a Virtual 213 Number
Businesses can acquire virtual phone numbers to establish a local presence. A company in Europe can get a virtual 213 area code number to appear local to customers in Los Angeles, increasing call answer rates. Similarly, a US-based company can get a virtual +213 number to provide a local contact point for its Algerian customers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the 213 Code
- What time zone is Algeria (+213) in? Algeria is in the Central European Time zone (UTC+1) and does not observe daylight saving time.
- What time zone is Los Angeles (213) in? The 213 area code is in the Pacific Time Zone (UTC-8 Standard Time, UTC-7 Daylight Time).
- Is a call from a +213 number always international? Yes, for anyone outside of Algeria, a call from a number beginning with +213 is an international call.
- Can I send a text message to a +213 number? Yes, you can send an SMS to an Algerian mobile number, but standard international messaging rates will apply.
- What is the difference between an area code and a country code? A country code (like +213 for Algeria) routes calls to a specific country. An area code (like 213 for Los Angeles) routes calls to a specific region within a country. A common point of confusion is the search term “1 213 country code,” which incorrectly combines the US country code (+1) with the LA area code (213).
Conclusion
The “213” code is a perfect example of how a single number can have two very different meanings in global telecommunications. The +213 country code connects you to the vibrant nation of Algeria, while the 213 area code places you in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. By understanding the difference, recognizing the correct dialing formats, and staying vigilant against potential scams, you can navigate your communications with confidence.
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