how was i targeted

Tara--Welcome to the forums.

It could be identity theft. You need to send them a debt validation letter. You can get one at www.debtconsolidationcare.com/letters . You need to research this thoroughly and don't pay anything until they can prove that you owe. It may be something you forgot about, or it could be ID theft.

If you haven't done so already go to annualcreditreport and get your free yearly credit report and make sure everything on there is accurate. Im also an advocate of the credit monitoring services. I'm a member of truecredit from Transunion. (www.truecredit.com) There are many others, but always choose one run by at least ONE of the 3 credit bureaus--Experian, Equifax, Transunion. The others may sign you up for other services, (Roadside assistance, etc) and can create big messes.

Great info, Jessi!
I also think that some collection agents are so desparate for commission that they will do anything and say anything to get you to pay up. Whether or not the debt is really yours is a side issue.