I received a sommons today after requesting the company to vaildate the debt because I thought it was well over the amount that owed.

It is probably well over the amout owed because they have added a large amount of interest and will continue to do so until the debt is paid.

So you answer the summons with your Intent to Defend and request verification from the Plaintiff.
Its not unusual for old debt to triple and quadruple with interest and fees.

Well, you have the right to know all indebtness that they say you owe, that is a given even in California I would think.