Got a call from these crafty scumbags more then once. Calling me was one thing, but calling my family saying they have "documents" for me and do they know where I am. Scammers..creeps...penny chasing fuckery! Don't be duped...and most of all...don't be grieved.
How can I verify whether or not a debt collector is legitimate?
Here are a few warning signs that could signal a debt collection scam:
The debt collector threatens you. Legitimate debt collectors probably won't claim that they'll have you arrested or claim that they or their employees are law enforcement officers.
The debt collector refuses to give you information about your debt or is trying to collect a debt you do not recognize. You have certain rights to ask a debt collector to verify the debt. You can use this sample letter to request this information. Ask for an explanation in writing before you pay.
The debt collector refuses to give you a mailing address or phone number.
The debt collector asks you for sensitive personal financial information. You should never provide anyone with your personal financial information unless you are sure they're legitimate.
If you think that a caller may be a fake debt collector:
Ask the caller for his or her name, company, street address, telephone number, and professional license number. Many states require debt collectors to be licensed. Check the information the caller provides you with your state officials, or the state in which the debt collector holds a license. If the caller refuses or is unable to provide you with information about his company, or if you can’t verify the information he provides, do not give money to the caller or company.
Tell the caller that you refuse to discuss any debt until you get a written "validation notice." This notice must include:
The amount of the debt
The name of the creditor you owe
A description of certain rights under the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
If a caller refuses to give you all of this information, consider requesting this information in writing or seeking assistance before paying the debt to make sure the debt, and the company, are valid.
Tip: You can consider sending the collector a letter requesting the information by using one of the CFPB's sample letters. You can also submit a complaint to the CFPB or you can contact your state Attorney General’s office.
Do not give the caller personal financial or other sensitive information. Never give out or confirm personal financial or other sensitive information like your bank account, credit card, or Social Security number unless you know the company or person you are talking with is a real debt collector. Scam artists, like fake debt collectors, can use your information to commit identity theft such as:
Charging your existing credit cards
Opening new credit card or checking accounts
Writing fraudulent checks
Taking out loans in your name
Contact your creditor. If the debt is legitimate – but you think the collector may not be – contact your creditor about the calls. Share the information you have about the suspicious calls and find out who, if anyone, the creditor has authorized to collect the debt.
Report the call. Submit a complaint with the CFPB or get in touch with your state Attorney General's office with information about suspicious callers.
Stop speaking with the caller.If nothing else works and you believe the calls are fraudulent, send a letter demanding that the caller stop contacting you, and keep a copy for your files.
Tip: You can use this sample letter to write a letter demanding the debt collector stop contacting you. By law, real debt collectors must stop calling you if you ask them to in writing.
Tip: If you're having trouble with debt collection, you can submit a complaint with the CFPB online or by calling (855) 411-CFPB (2372).
They did the same to me and i have lifelock so when I called them back to tell them that and I contacted my attorney and better business bureau they haven't called back they said I owed money to embark century and version. They called my stepdads ☎ and then called my mom's ☎ they had 2 different numbers. Scam don't fall for it if this number appears on ur I'd 844 724 2405. So if they call and tell u u owe money and going to garnish wages check it out no matter what number they give u the company only name they gave was c d k
Got a call from them asking for a name that I happen to know 4 people with, claiming they had a very important message. I told her I know a few people be this name. Thereof she came up with a birth-year. I told her its my ex husband whom I had nothing todo with. She was pissy and hung up. These people are very tricky. Not sure where they get their info, but my phonenumber never was affiliated to my ex, I have a different last name and and in the last 25 years we both been remarried.
Got a call from +1 386-256-9079 usually don't pick up these numbers but was waiting on a call from att uverse and thought it was them. Lady said they needed to speak with my husband (Did say his full name) Said they have some documents for him and he needed to call 888-510-5303 or it was going to become a legal matter. She said they only attempt to call twice after that it out of her hands. I asked what company she is from she said consumer locating. I almost fell for it and called second number, Glad to find this webpage, very helpful!