Residents are seeing a spike in 303 area code calls involving fake FedEx delivery issues and Xcel Energy shut-off threats. These scammers want to panic you into paying immediate fees to avoid losing your power or packages.
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.
Scammers from numbers like 303-214-6058 call claiming to be FedEx Ground representatives named "Albert," "Miles," or "Zalma" about an undelivered package. They ask you to confirm your address and provide a tracking number, then direct you to call back an 833 number to resolve the fake issue. They sound unprofessional with background noise like people laughing, have your name and number but an incorrect address, and ask for tracking information that real delivery services already have. They use your personal information to steal packages or commit identity theft. Real FedEx representatives never ask customers to call 833 numbers for delivery issues. They show up at your door.
"Fake FedEx phone call . Call from this phone number saying there was a problem with a FedEx delivery asking me to call back on an 833 phone number and give them my information AND tracking number. When i called a verified FedEx number, they indicated that they DO NOT ask people to call back any number except their published **800** phone number."
Automated calls from local 303 numbers claim to be Xcel Energy threatening to shut off your power in 30 to 45 minutes for a past-due bill. The message demands you press 1 to make immediate payment and avoid disconnection, creating high pressure to act without thinking. They use your payment information to steal money or rack up charges on your accounts. Xcel Energy provides multiple written notices via mail or email long before any disconnection. Real utility companies do not threaten shutoffs within the hour.
"Got a call from 303-442-8428 saying electricity would be turned off if I didn't pay, prompt to press 1 and I told the guy he was scamming me, my account is paid. Got online and checked balance also called xcel and this is a scam"
Scammers using names like "Jared," "Katia Brushia," or claiming to be from "BCT" call aggressively about tax liens or arrest warrants for unpaid taxes. They threaten arrest, use rude language like telling victims to "have fun paying 27000 dollars," and demand you verify personal information over the phone. They use your tax information to file fraudulent returns or steal your identity. The IRS never calls about tax debts as their first contact. They send official mail through the U.S. Postal Service.
"A women called looking for my husband. She said I have a tax lien. I told her I was not discussing anything with her. I will contact the IRS. I know I do not have one. She told me have fun paying 27000 dollars. Very rude. Be careful if they call you."
Robocalls or live callers claim your Social Security Number has been suspended due to fraudulent or illegal activity and threaten federal charges or arrest if you do not call back immediately. They ask for your SSN or other personal data to "verify" your identity during the callback. They use your Social Security number to open accounts, file tax returns, or steal your benefits. Your Social Security number cannot be suspended or canceled. The Social Security Administration handles problems through official mailed letters.
"Received a voicemail from this number claiming that my SSN was suspended and I needed to call them or face federal charges."
Robocalls threaten to cancel government benefits like SNAP unless you press # to speak with a representative to keep your benefits active. These calls often come late at night after 8 p.m. and pressure you to act immediately to avoid losing assistance. They use your benefit information to steal payments or commit identity fraud. Government agencies administering benefits communicate through U.S. Mail, not robocalls. Real agencies do not threaten to terminate benefits by phone.
"calling after 8 pm robo call saying to press # if you wish to keep your government benefits or press# to speak to a representative"
Callers target businesses demanding to speak with the owner, CFO, or manager by name while refusing to state their purpose. They use fake names like "Jim McDaniels" or "Sean Blair" and falsely claim to be from entities like the "Cherry Creek School District" or "Tucker Group." When questioned, they become rude, demanding, or angry, and hang up when challenged. They use access to business owners to pitch fraudulent services or steal company information. Legitimate business partners identify themselves clearly and professionally. They do not resort to rudeness to get past staff.
"Asked for business owner by name. When I asked him who he was, he just said he was from 'Tucker Group.' When I asked about the reason for the call, he said 'Just get *owner name* on the phone,' so I hung up on him. Bastard."
Persistent robocalls claim your car's warranty has expired or is about to expire, urging you to press a number to speak with a "specialist" to extend coverage. The automated message is vague and does not mention your car's specific make or model, pressuring you to "act now" to avoid being without coverage. They sell worthless or overpriced service plans that provide no real protection. Legitimate manufacturers and dealers contact you via mail with official branding about warranty status. They do not use generic robocalls to conduct business.
"left voice message for vehicle warranty expiration. That number in the voice message was 470-650-8272 - Britney"
No, area code 303 is not a scam. It's a legitimate telephone area code serving millions of legitimate residents and businesses in Colorado, United States. Area code 303 is a general purpose code that has been in service since January 1, 1947.
You're likely experiencing "Neighbor Spoofing." Scammers fake their caller ID to display local or familiar numbers. If you live in or near Colorado (Denver, Aurora, Lakewood), or have a 303 phone number yourself, scammers know you're more likely to answer what appears to be a local call.
Other Colorado area codes where scam and spam calls are regularly reported: