The 863 area code is targeted by Medicare genetic testing fraud and fake process servers. Callers try to bill your insurance for unneeded tests or scare you with fake court documents.
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Callers using names like "Richard Harkaway" target Florida seniors in the 863 area code, pushing "cardiac genetic testing" that requires a mouth swab. They already have your Medicare number and falsely claim doctors like "Dr. Elie Hercule" ordered the test or medical equipment like back and knee braces, pressuring you to sign forms and provide your Medicare card number over the phone. They use your Medicare information to bill for genetic testing and medical equipment you never requested, then ship boxes of braces to your home. Real doctors do not have third-party companies call you about testing. These decisions happen during in-person appointments.
"prior to these calls he sent herFOUR BOXES OF TOP GRADe braces for knees, back, etc. 9 in all of which was billed to medicare. claims her Dr. ordered them. So I contacted her pcp. Knows nothing of it. My mother has no heart condition. she does have alzheimers, which is why she supplied him with her medicare number."
Individuals using names like "Nicole" or "Sophia Taylor" call claiming to be process servers or mediators, threatening immediate "legal reinforcement," "garnishment of wages," and serving papers at your home or workplace unless you call back to resolve a vague "formal complaint." They are rude, aggressive, and refuse to provide their company's name when pressed for details. They use fear to trick you into calling back and providing personal information or payment. Real process servers do not call first. They show up.
"My name's Nicole calling in regards to a formal complaint that to be processed and released out to the county for immediate reinforcement against you in order to stop action. I will need to speak with you or your attorney today before this case is forwarded out to Pasco County for a request for garnishment of wages..."
Robocalls warn that "legal enforcement action" has been filed against your Social Security Number due to suspicious activity, threatening arrest or suspension of benefits unless you call back immediately and verify your SSN. They use your SSN to steal your identity and open accounts in your name. The Social Security Administration never calls to threaten your benefits or claim your SSN has been suspended. They communicate through official mail only.
"They left a message asking me to call back and identify myself by entering the last 4 digits of my SS# & if I didn't they would issue a warrant for my arrest."
Persistent daily robocalls give a "final warning" about your car's extended warranty, often mentioning vehicles you sold years ago or never owned, calling from sequences of different numbers to evade call blockers. When you engage, callers become verbally abusive and use profane language, getting angry when told you're not interested. They use any response to confirm your number is active and sell it to other scammers. These are illegal robocalls with no knowledge of your actual vehicle.
"Tried to sell Toyota warranty and got verbally abusive when we said we owned Fords, not Toyotas."
Recorded messages claim your computer support service, often mentioning "Geek Squad," has been automatically renewed for fees like "$249" or "$399.99," stating large sums will be deducted unless you call back. When you call to "cancel," they ask for remote access to your computer to "process a refund" or demand credit card information. They use remote access to steal files and install malware, or use your credit card details for fraudulent charges. Legitimate companies never use threatening robocalls for billing.
"Received a phone message on my landline number on Saturday 08/03/2019 from an automated male voice indicating that my account had been rebilled for $399.99 for computer technical service and to call should I wish to cancel. I have never purchased computer technical services..."
No, area code 863 is not a scam. It's a legitimate telephone area code serving millions of legitimate residents and businesses in Florida, United States. Area code 863 is a general purpose code that has been in service since September 20, 1999.
You're likely experiencing "Neighbor Spoofing." Scammers fake their caller ID to display local or familiar numbers. If you live in or near Florida (Lakeland, Winter Haven, Poinciana), or have a 863 phone number yourself, scammers know you're more likely to answer what appears to be a local call.
Other Florida area codes where scam and spam calls are regularly reported: