How to Spot a Fake Debt Collection Call in Florida

The phone rings and it’s an unknown number. The person on the other end claims you owe a tremendous amount of money and must pay it right away or face dire consequences. Instead of experiencing stress and worry, here is how to spot a fake debt collection call in Florida and how a Florida Debt defense attorney can help you if you’ve already fallen victim to a scammer. 

Why Fake Debt Collection Calls Are a Problem in Florida

These calls are a growing issue in Florida because many residents are older and may have turned to credit cards for daily living expenses after COVID-19. Rising prices and stagnating wages make it harder to handle bills, leading creditors to send accounts to collection agencies. 

Data from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) showed a dramatic increase in debt collection calls between June of 2024 and June 2025. Over that year, the total number of reports went from 23,465 to 31,192 for 2025 (as of October) and an average of 40% of these calls are threatening or abusive in nature.

Red Flags That a Florida Debt Collection Call Is a Scam

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers these signs that a debt collection call could be fake:

• Refusing to Provide Written Proof: Debt collectors should contact you in writing with details about the debt they’re trying to collect. If you haven’t gotten a letter about the debt, the call could be a scam.
• Threatening Arrest or Legal Action: Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), collectors can’t threaten you with criminal charges or arrest. 
• Demanding Unusual Payment Methods: Scammers may insist you use their payment portal, a digital currency, or some other method beside banks.
• Asking for Sensitive Personal Information: They may already have some details about you, but you aren’t required to verify them and you should never provide personal info.
• Harassing or Late-Night Calls: The CFPB reports that collectors aren’t allowed to call you between 9 PM and 8 AM.
• Unfamiliar or Unverified Debts: Some callers may present details about a debt that isn’t yours, yet insist you are responsible. 

Other signs of a fake call include threats to make your debt publicly known, impersonating government officials, and charging fees to accept your payment on the debt. 

Your Rights Under Debt Collection Laws in Florida

Fortunately, the Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA) offers key protections. While debt collectors do have the right to pursue legitimate cases, they must notify you in writing and offer payment plans so you can pay the debt down. You also have the right to dispute any debt under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).

Steps to Take If You Suspect a Florida Debt Collector Scam

If you think a caller is a fake debt collector, ask for the company name and mailing address, creditor’s name, and full debt amount, including fees. Ask them to send this information to you in writing, which a legitimate company must do within 30 days. 

If you think you’re getting fake debt collection calls, you can submit a claim to the CFPB, which will investigate the circumstances. You can also file a complaint with the Florida Attorney General’s office, the FTC, and the Florida Office of Financial Regulation. 

What To Do If You’ve Already Paid a Scammer

The FTC offers extensive advice on what to do if you were scammed, which includes:

• Contact your bank or other institution you used to pay the debt and ask them to stop payment.
• Visit IdentityTheft.gov to determine whether scammers have stolen your identity to generate false debts.
• Report the crime to your local police.
• Change the passwords on all your financial accounts and use two-step verification.

You can also speak with an identity theft attorney who will help you pursue legal action and inform you of your rights against unfair collection practices. 

How a Florida Debt Defense Attorney Can Help

If a debt is valid, collectors still don’t have the right to harass and intimidate you. You can work with a Florida debt defense attorney to discus your options during a free case review. They can gather evidence showing payments you’ve made and collaborate with financial experts to help you negotiate a fair repayment or settlement plan with the creditor.

Contact Sharmin & Sharmin Debt Defense Collector for Help Today

We’re ready to help you defend yourself against unethical debt collectors when you schedule a free consultation with us today.