Area Code Atlas

NANP-Introduction of New 268 (Antigua & Barbuda) Numbering Plan Area (NPA)

NPA 268 split from 809 and activated

Area code 268 was activated on April 1, 1996, for Antigua and Barbuda. It was created by splitting from area code 809, which previously served all Caribbean countries and Bermuda. This split assigned a unique area code to Antigua and Barbuda, enhancing call routing and management. A permissive dialing period allowed use of both codes until March 31, 1997.

End of permissive dialing for 809 in The Bahamas and 268 in Antigua and Barbuda

On March 31, 1997, the permissive dialing period for area code 809 in The Bahamas ended, requiring callers to use area code 242 for all calls to The Bahamas. Similarly, the permissive dialing period for area code 268 in Antigua and Barbuda ended, requiring callers to use the 268 area code for all calls to Antigua and Barbuda, with the old 809 code no longer valid for these destinations.

Fraud alert issued for 'one ring scam' involving Caribbean NPAs

In February 2014, the Better Business Bureau issued a fraud alert for the 'one ring scam,' which involved several Caribbean area codes including 284, 268, 809, 473, 876, and 649. The scam targeted victims by prompting them to return missed calls to these area codes, resulting in high international call charges.