I got a text message from this # asking, "hi how ya doing?". I didn't recognize the # and did a search on the area code which is in Tennesee. I don't know anyone from there. I have been getting some sneaky bill collectors lately and am wondering if this is a new ploy?

keep track of those text messages - you can take a photo of the text message on screens.     they may come in handy as evidence in court if you decide to sue them

Thank you for the advice. I saved the text on my phone, just in case.