A non-genuine Canadian telephone contact is a string of digits formatted according to the North American Numbering Plan, but not assigned to a legitimate subscriber. This type of number can be generated using software, obtained from various online services, or crafted to appear as a valid sequence. For instance, a sequence starting with a Canadian area code and a plausible central office code might appear legitimate, but will not connect to a working telephone line.
The creation and dissemination of these fabricated numbers are driven by various factors, including protecting personal privacy when registering for online services, bypassing phone verification systems, or creating disposable identities. Historically, the need for such solutions has grown alongside increasing concerns about data security and the desire to limit unwanted telemarketing calls. However, generating or using these constructs can lead to ethical and potentially legal issues depending on the application and intent.