SCAM LIBRARY · IMPERSONATION

The fake debt collector

A scammer calls claiming you owe money and demanding immediate payment, but they're not a real debt collector.

Documented by the FTC & FBI IC3 · reviewed 2026-07-06

How it works

You receive a call from someone claiming to represent a debt collection agency, saying you have an outstanding debt that needs to be paid right away. They use urgency and threats (like legal action or wage garnishment) to pressure you into paying quickly, before you have time to verify their claims.

Red flags

• Caller demands payment by wire transfer, gift card, or prepaid card immediately
• They refuse to provide verifiable details (company name, case number, address) or get angry when you ask for them
• They threaten arrest, license suspension, or lawsuit if you don't pay within hours
• They won't let you hang up to call the alleged creditor directly to confirm

What to do

• Hang up and independently verify the debt by contacting the creditor directly using a phone number from your billing statement or official website—never use a number the caller provided
• Never pay anyone who calls demanding immediate payment; legitimate debt collectors allow time for you to respond and verify
• Report the call to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov