Collection Scam

Phony debt collectors contact consumers all across the country trying to collect on fake debts. Some may sound convincing and even threaten you if you don’t send them money right away. They typically tell you to wire money, pay by prepaid debit card, send cash, or even load payment onto gift cards. Consumers should beware of phony collectors to avoid getting scammed.

It may not always be easy to decipher between a legitimate debt collector and a scam outfit, some    may be hard to tell the difference between a legitimate debt collector and a fake one. At times they may know some of your personal information, even your bank account number. Some tell-tale signs of a fake debt collector to look out for are:

• Callers that are trying to get payment on a debt you do not recognize or owe. refuses to give you a mailing address or phone number


• Individuals that ask for you to give them your personal financial or sensitive information


• Persons that use scare tactics, exert high pressure to intimidate you, or threaten to arrest you or report you to the authorities.


• They ask you to pay by prepaid debit card, money or wire transfer, cash, or by gift card.


• They refuse to provide their contact information.

If you are contacted by a collector the following tips can assist you in dealing with a collection scammer:

1. Ask the caller for his name, company, street address, and telephone number


2. Refuse to speak with them until they have provided a written “validation notice” regarding the supposed debt which must include the amount of the debt, name of the creditor you owe, and your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.  


3. Stop speaking with them on the phone and send a request through the mail that they stop contacting you.


4. Never give any personal or financial information to anyone you are unsure of. This includes your social security number, identification, bank account information, etc.


5. Contact your creditor to see if you owe anything.


6. Check your credit report for any unknown or unauthorized debts.


7. File a complaint with BCA.