So that you are more likely to answer their call, they spoof caller ID so that it looks like a number from your local government or legal office.  They buy old and delinquent debt and use internet location services to locate people who are friends or family of the person they are trying to collect old and delinquent debt from.  They can't legally collect using the court system on debt that is old and stale so they try to scare people into paying - and they tack on usually hundreds of dollars for their commission.

The law requires they mail you a Debt Validation Letter.  If they refuse, tell them to kiss off.    You could also tell them to send the process server (they NEVER do) and you'll be waiting to be served in the company of your local law enforcement.

Another thing that gets them is if you tell them at the beginning of the call that you are tape recording to keep them honest.  They typically hang up the phone real quick and you never hear from them again!

Have fun!

Jennifer Taylor representing "United Firms". Wanted to get address to serve papers. Fraud