In today’s hyper-connected world, phone numbers are more than just strings of digits—they are digital identifiers. When a number like 9738697101 appears on your caller ID, it can trigger curiosity, concern, or even suspicion. Is it a legitimate caller? A telemarketer? A scam attempt? Or simply a wrong number?
This article explores the broader context behind unfamiliar phone numbers like 9738697101, how area codes work, common reasons these numbers may contact you, and the practical steps you can take to protect yourself.
The Meaning Behind the 973 Area Code
The number 9738697101 begins with the 973 area code, which is associated with the U.S. state of New Jersey. Specifically, 973 serves the northern part of the state, including cities such as:
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Newark
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Paterson
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Clifton
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Passaic
The 973 area code was created in 1997 as a split from the 201 area code due to increasing demand for phone numbers. Over time, it has become associated with both residential and business lines, as well as mobile numbers.
However, in the age of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and number spoofing, area codes do not always accurately reflect a caller’s physical location. Someone could be calling from another state—or even another country—while displaying a 973 number.
Why You Might Receive a Call from 9738697101
If you’ve received a call from 9738697101, there are several possible explanations. Let’s explore the most common ones.
1. A Legitimate Business Call
Many companies operate call centers in northern New Jersey. The call could be related to:
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A delivery update
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A financial institution
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A healthcare provider
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A customer service follow-up
If you recently interacted with a business based in New Jersey, the call may be completely legitimate.
2. Telemarketing or Promotional Calls
The 973 area code is also used by marketing agencies and sales teams. These calls often promote:
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Insurance services
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Credit card offers
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Home improvement services
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Subscription packages
While not necessarily malicious, such calls can feel intrusive. If you answer and hear a recorded message, it is likely an automated telemarketing system.
3. Scam or Spoofed Calls
Unfortunately, scammers frequently spoof local-looking numbers to increase the likelihood that you will answer. A call from 9738697101 could potentially be:
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An IRS impersonation scam
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A fake bank fraud alert
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A “you’ve won a prize” message
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A tech support scam
Spoofing allows scammers to disguise their real number, making it appear as though the call originates from a legitimate U.S. location.
The Rise of Phone Scams in the United States
Phone scams have surged dramatically over the last decade. According to consumer protection agencies, billions of robocalls are made each month in the United States.
Scammers often use tactics such as:
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Urgency (“Act now or face consequences!”)
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Fear (“Your account has been compromised.”)
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Authority (“This is the IRS calling.”)
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Curiosity (“You’ve won a free reward!”)
If 9738697101 called you and requested sensitive information such as your Social Security number, banking details, or one-time passwords, that is a strong red flag.
How to Identify Whether 9738697101 Is Safe
If you’re unsure about a call from 9738697101, here are steps you can take:
1. Do Not Immediately Call Back
If the number did not leave a voicemail, avoid calling back right away. Some scams rely on returned calls to connect you to premium-rate lines.
2. Search the Number Online
Many users report suspicious numbers on community-based platforms. Searching “9738697101” may reveal whether others have flagged it as spam.
3. Check Voicemail Carefully
Legitimate callers typically leave detailed voicemails, including:
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Company name
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Reason for calling
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A callback number
Scammers often leave vague or threatening messages.
4. Use Reverse Lookup Services
There are reputable services that help identify phone numbers. While not always 100% accurate, they can provide clues about whether the number is associated with a business, mobile line, or reported scam.
What to Do If You Answered the Call
If you answered a call from 9738697101, consider what was discussed:
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Did the caller ask for personal information?
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Did they pressure you to act quickly?
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Did they request payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency?
If you suspect fraud:
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Do not provide additional information.
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Hang up immediately.
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Monitor your financial accounts.
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Consider reporting the number to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Protecting Yourself from Suspicious Numbers
Receiving calls from unknown numbers is unavoidable, but you can reduce your risk.
Enable Call Filtering
Most smartphones offer built-in spam filtering. Carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile also provide call-blocking apps.
Register with the National Do Not Call Registry
In the United States, you can add your number to the Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing calls. While this won’t eliminate scams, it can reduce legitimate marketing outreach.
Avoid Sharing Your Number Publicly
Be cautious about posting your phone number on public websites, forums, or social media platforms.
Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Protect your online accounts with two-factor authentication. Even if scammers obtain your phone number, this adds an extra layer of security.
The Psychology Behind Unknown Numbers
Why do unfamiliar numbers like 9738697101 capture our attention so strongly?
It comes down to uncertainty and perceived risk. When we see a missed call from an unknown number, our minds generate possibilities:
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Is it a job opportunity?
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A family emergency?
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A financial issue?
Scammers exploit this psychological reaction. By appearing local (using a 973 area code), they increase the likelihood that recipients will answer.
When It’s Probably Harmless
Not all unknown numbers are dangerous. Sometimes, the call could be:
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A misdialed number
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A survey company
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A follow-up from a recent service appointment
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A friend using a new phone
If the caller did not leave a voicemail and hasn’t attempted repeated contact, it may simply be an accidental dial.
Should You Block 9738697101?
If:
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The caller repeatedly contacts you without leaving a message
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You confirmed it was spam
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The call involved suspicious behavior
Then blocking the number is a practical step. Modern smartphones allow you to block numbers with a few taps.
However, remember that scammers frequently rotate numbers. Blocking one does not prevent future attempts from different numbers.
Final Thoughts
The number 9738697101 may represent a legitimate caller—or it may be a telemarketing or spoofed number. Without verified identification, it’s impossible to determine its origin with certainty.
What matters most is how you respond:
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Stay cautious
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Protect your personal information
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Verify before trusting
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Use available tools to filter and block suspicious calls
In the digital era, awareness is your best defense. Unknown numbers will continue to appear on our screens, but informed decisions can prevent inconvenience—or worse, financial harm.
