http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fdcpa/fdcpact.htm
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/fdc.htm
Quote:
May a debt collector continue to contact you if you believe you do not owe money?
A collector may not contact you if, within 30 days after you receive the written notice, you send the collection agency a letter stating you do not owe money. However, a collector can renew collection activities if you are sent proof of the debt, such as a copy of a bill for the amount owed.
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Probably doesn't help you much since you don't want to verify who you are. It sounds like someone gave them an incorrect phone number.
Also, they MUST tell you why they are calling. If they don't identify the company your reply will be,
"If you are calling to collect a debt you must identify the company you work for or you are in violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act." Then ask to speak to a supervisor.
I've had luck just invoking the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act from the start.