**Fake Debt Collection Campaign Targets Consumers with Government Impersonation Tactics**
This scam campaign centers around two interconnected phone numbers operating a coordinated debt collection fraud scheme. The primary number, 833-807-6367, has generated 3 FTC complaints under the category "Calls pretending to be government, businesses, or family and friends," with reported activity concentrated in Norfolk, Nebraska and Weeki Wachee, Florida. The secondary number, 217-717-2733, works in tandem with the primary line, with both numbers reported together by victims with a confidence level of 0.35, indicating a systematic approach to the fraud operation.
The scammers employ a sophisticated two-number system where victims receive initial contact from 217-717-2733 but are directed to call back the primary number 833-807-6367. Community reports reveal the fraudsters use the fictitious "Reginal Claims Office" as their front organization, with callers identifying themselves as representatives like "Steve Barker." The scam messages follow a consistent script, claiming there is a "civil complaint in the process of pending out" and instructing victims to call extension 117. These messages specifically reference victims' names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth to appear legitimate, and threaten legal consequences if victims fail to respond.
Consumer impact data shows this campaign has successfully generated multiple complaints and community reports, with victims reporting receiving identical threatening voicemails. The geographic targeting appears focused on smaller communities in Nebraska and Florida, potentially indicating the scammers are targeting areas where consumers may be less familiar with sophisticated fraud tactics. The use of personal information and official-sounding language has created enough concern among recipients to prompt them to file complaints and seek community advice.
To protect yourself from similar scams, verify any debt collection claims by requesting written validation notices, which legitimate collectors are required to provide under federal law. Never provide personal information over the phone to unsolicited callers, and be especially suspicious of threats demanding immediate payment or legal action. If you receive suspicious calls, hang up immediately, do not click any links in related text messages, and report the incident to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or to the FCC. You can check if a phone number has been reported as fraudulent by searching consumer protection websites and reverse phone lookup services before returning any calls.
This campaign represents a moderate threat level given the targeted use of personal information and coordinated multi-number approach. Consumers should remain vigilant for calls from both 833-807-6367 and 217-717-2733, and report any contact to appropriate authorities. The "Reginal Claims Office" should be considered a fraudulent entity, and no legitimate business relationship exists with this organization.