The +639 Dilemma:
Why PH Numbers Get Flagged
Ever sent a message to a potential client overseas, only to be met with complete silence? You check your message, you know you sent it right, but there's just... nothing.
It's a frustrating reality for many of us—Filipino freelancers, OFWs, and business owners—and a lot of the time, the problem starts with the first three digits they see: +63.
A quick online search for "Are +639 numbers used by scammers?" brings up a blunt and discouraging answer: Yes, frequently. Let's get one thing straight: +639 isn't some shady prefix. It's just the standard for almost every mobile number in the Philippines. But unfortunately, the Philippines has earned a reputation as a hotspot for global text-based scams.
Why The World is Wary
Fake Job Offers
Messages popping up out of nowhere, promising unbelievable salaries for "simple tasks."
Phishing Packages
Claims that a package is held for you, pending a "customs fee" or a quick click to steal personal info.
Alarming Alerts
Fake notifications about bank issues or unpaid tolls designed to induce panic.
Since these schemes are so common, people and spam filters abroad are now hardwired to be suspicious. An unsolicited +63 number has become a digital red flag. But it's a two-way street. Here is what we can do as freelancers.
Strategies for Freelancers
Build Trust First
Don't start with a text. Kick things off with an email or LinkedIn message to establish legitimacy.
Give a Heads-Up
Let them know: "Just confirming our call. I'll be texting you from my Philippine number, +63..."
Use VoIP
Serious about international clients? Get a local number (US/UK) via Skype or VoIP to remove the barrier.
Advice for Recipients
Be Skeptical
If a message feels too urgent, too demanding, or too good to be true—it probably is.
Don't Click Links
Never click on links in a random text. They are often designed to steal your data.
Guard Your Info
Scammers are fishing for passwords and bank details. Don't give them anything.
Block & Move On
The easiest way to end the conversation is to simply block the number.
Look, we can only do so much on our own. This problem needs a systemic fix. The SIM Registration Act was a start, but telcos need stricter filters to catch these messages before they send.
A country code doesn't define a person's character. While vigilance is key, it's worth remembering the millions of honest, hardworking people that number represents. Let's work to turn +63 back into a symbol of Filipino talent and integrity.