Just received a call from someone using the name "Robert Woods" with an accent like all of the above notes. No identifying information as far as who they were calling for, just that there is an "outstanding case against your name and social" and left a file number (although I couldn't understand all of the numbers he gave for that--was having issues pronouncing some of the numbers/letters) and stated that they were going to send info to me with in 3 business days and my employer for garnishments from the court to the tune of $4000.00. I've been getting more and more calls like this since I found out my identity was stolen--coincidence? I think not!!
called claiming to be a lawyer, Will Jacobs, and threatening me with wage garnishment if I do not call within two business days. Rude and very unprofessional. When I called back I had to leave a message, but the machine was also very unprofessional. Just said "Will Jacobs, leave a message." People - beware!!!!!!
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).
i woke up this morning to a phone message on my phone that stated...
"This message is for ....... This is Robert Woods from Calvin and Travis law firm. I would like to talk to you about a legal matter. We're going to sue you and in this matter your name and social security number has been listed on. So before we contact your payroll department and send them garnishment letter for your wages garnishment before we put all this stuff on your credit. Its better you can call us back. My phone number is 561.235-7900, Again 561-235-7900, If i dont receive any call back from you or from your attorney eitehr then you'll be facing a lots of legal consequences...." The number that he called from is 561-257-4644.
I have been getting this type of call ever since i foolishly applied for a payday loan. Be careful of who you are dealing with. Do not fall for this type of scam. They are just out to threaten you. FYI...the payday loan was paid off in full and i keep getting offers --- legitimate ones--from the same firm telling me that i am a valued customer.
Again please do not fall for this type of harassment. if a person claims to be a "lawyer" ask them to please send you proof in writing of who you owe the money to.
A legitimate firm will not threaten you over the phone. A legitimate firm will not call you before 8 am. This message was left at 6:04 my time. i am on the west coast. The phone number is from Boca Raton Florida.
The caller is Indian with heavy accent. It is phony. He is looking to get information so he can rob your bank account. Contact the Florida state attorney generals office and file a complaint. You can do it online.