why in movies in someones number they always use 555?

Question

here's an example 786-555-2423

Answer 1

The area code 555 does not exist. They use it to stop weird people ( and we know how weird some Americans are ) phoning non-existent people because they cant differentiate real life and fiction; a bit like coronation street viewers.
The number 911 is the emergency services number.

Answer 2

Yep..so people would not get bothered with numerous calls. There is, however, some working '555' numbers....Such as 700-555-4141.. Hollywood did NOT buy up the 555 exchange as previously mentioned. There is no 555 area code, but several toll free numbers still use a 555 prefix.!! Anyway, used almost always in TV shows or movies..

Answer 3

Dear Dele,
555-1212 [Information] used to be the number they would use for movies and TV shows. Now days They also use the other Operator functions as well... ALL 555 area coeds.
IF some geek, troublemaker or fool tries to Daile up June Cleaver... He just gets the operator.
Hugs,
PennyAnn

Answer 4

I think you got your answer, but also look at computer screens on TV shows when they're showing the IP address of a computer. The acceptable range is a number between 0 and 255 and frequently you'll see a number like 273 or something higher. I've seen it happen on 24 (the show) before.

Same reasoning I suppose.

Answer 5

So that they will never use a real working phone number. Remember Tommy Tutone's hit "867-5309/Jenny"? For years, people in different area codes with that number have had to put up with annoying calls.

Answer 6

Hollywood bought out that exchange in the 50's I believe. It is only used in movies. It isn't a valid exchange.

Answer 7

If they used a random number, the poor person who has it would get lots of strange calls.