Fake subscription invoices and process server threats are common with the 850 area code. Scammers send bills for things you never bought or claim you are being sued to get your money.
Look up any suspicious number using our scam and spam phone number lookup database. It includes over 29 million Do Not Call and robocall complaints reported to the Federal Trade Commission.
Getting calls from 850 area code and wonder if it's a scam? You're not alone. Scammers frequently spoof Florida (Tallahassee, Pensacola, Panama City) phone numbers to trick you into answering. Here are the most common area code 850 scams based on user comments:
You receive a fake email or text message claiming you've been charged for a service or product you didn't order, such as a "NORTON PROTECTION" renewal for $300.00 or a "2020 Apple MacBook Air." The message provides this 850 number and urges you to call their "BILLING & SETTLEMENT DEPARTMENT" immediately to cancel and claim a refund, where they will try to get your banking information.
Legitimate companies send renewal notices from official email addresses, and any charges will appear directly in your account history on their secure website. They do not use Gmail accounts or pressure you to call a random phone number for refunds.
"Received an email stating my Norton Protection had been renewed for the year at $300. The first email was a bill, the second was a confirmation of payment email... If you require urgent assistance, please call our Experts for refund and settlement issue on +1 – ( 850 ) – ( 203 ) – 4159"
Scammers call claiming to be a process server or part of a mediation group like "Global Mediation Group" or "Hamlin Ross & Associates." They threaten that you will be served with legal papers at your home or work, face a lawsuit, or even have a warrant issued for your arrest over an old or completely fabricated debt, sometimes related to a payday loan.
Real process servers do not call ahead to warn you; they simply show up to serve the documents. Legitimate debt collectors are required by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to provide you with written proof of a debt and cannot threaten you with arrest.
"I got a call from 850-558-5829, it was a recording stating that I was getting served papers for a debt that has already been discharged by bankruptcy."
A robocall leaves a threatening voicemail stating that "fraudulent activities" have been associated with your Social Security number. The message warns that if you don't call them back immediately, they will "begin with the legal proceedings" or issue a warrant for your arrest.
The Social Security Administration will never call to threaten you with arrest or legal action. Official and legitimate communication from the SSA is almost always sent via U.S. Mail, not through a robocall.
"Call is regarding fraudulent activities associated with your social security number... So when you get this message kindly call back at the earliest possible on our number before we begin with the legal proceedings that is 850-316-4376."
You receive a robocall or email claiming a suspicious, expensive purchase has been made on your Amazon account, often for an item like an "Apple iPhone" or a "used TV in the amount of $1500.00." The message instructs you to press "1" or call a specific 850 number to speak with an agent and cancel the order before it ships.
Amazon will never call you and ask you to provide information over the phone regarding an order. All purchase notifications and issues are handled securely within your Amazon account on their official website or app.
"I got a call from 850-204-9758 to let me know they will be shipping me an iPhone on my Amazon account. I don't buy anything from Amazon. Looks like it's a scam."
A robocall claims to be from Microsoft or Apple support, warning that your computer's firewall has been breached, your Windows license is compromised, or your "Apple iCloud account has suspicious activity." The message creates panic by telling you not to use your computer for banking and to call them immediately to fix the non-existent problem.
Real tech companies like Microsoft and Apple do not monitor your personal computer for security breaches and will never cold-call you to offer tech support. This is a classic trick to gain access to your device and steal your personal or financial information.
"Received 21 calls from this number in last 24 hours, approximately every 21 minutes... Message states my iCloud acct has been breached and they are APPLE SERVICE ADVISOR. Did NOT call them back!"
A robocall claims to be from the IRS, stating that they are "filing a lawsuit against you" or that you have "four serious allegations" filed against your name. The message threatens that you will be "taken into custody" by local police if you do not call back immediately to resolve the issue.
The real IRS always initiates contact through official U.S. Mail, not with threatening phone calls. They will never demand immediate payment over the phone, ask for credit card numbers, or threaten to have you arrested.
"Received call saying IRS, 4 allegations against me.. If I do not call in 2 hours, will be taken into custody."
Frequently Asked Questions about Area Code 201 Scams and Spam Calls
No, area code 850 is not a scam. It's a legitimate telephone area code serving millions of legitimate residents and businesses in Florida, United States. Area code 850 is a general purpose code that has been in service since June 23, 1997.
Most common 850 scam types are:
You're likely experiencing "Neighbor Spoofing." Scammers fake their caller ID to display local or familiar numbers. If you live in or near Florida, or have a 850 phone number yourself, scammers know you're more likely to answer what appears to be a local call.
Calling back to unknown spam number may incur premium charges or at least confirm your phone number is active and lead to more spam and scam calls.
There are three main ways to reduce spam calls:
It's definitely possible to block all specific area code phone numbers. However, we do not recommend this option because it would also prevent friends, family, doctors, and legitimate businesses from reaching you.
Other Florida area codes where scam and spam calls are regularly reported: