Receiving a call from a debt collector, on its own, can be a very stressful experience. Even more stress is created when the legitimacy of the debt collector is put into question. Afterall, you could be faced with serious consequences if you discover you provided your personal financial information to scammers instead of actual debt collectors. The following tips will help you determine the authenticity of debt collectors and what to do if the caller is suspected to be a scammer.

Key Indications of Fake Debt Collector Calls

1. The supposed collector on the phone is not providing identifying information such as a phone number or mailing address when asked.

2. The “collector” is requesting that you provide them with private information related to your personal finances.

3. The “collector” is not forthcoming about specific details regarding the debt that you owe. 

4. The “collector is claiming that you owe a debt that you are unaware of.

5. The “collector” makes intimidating statements regarding legal actions they may take if the debt is not paid.

How to Deal With Scam Calls

If you have any suspicions that the “debt collector” you are talking to is not legitimate, the following tips should be followed to avoid being scammed.

1. Request the collector to provide key identifying information that proves they are legitimate. The information that should be asked for includes: 

a. Their name
b. A phone number
c. The name of the company they work for
d. The number of their professional license
e. The address of their company.

If they are unable to fulfill your requests, hang up.
 

2. Never provide any private financial or personal details over the phone unless you are certain that the collector you are talking to is legitimate. 

3. Request the collector to provide you with a “validation notice.” This is a written document that includes details regarding the debt that you owe, who you owe it to, and a list of your rights. Let the collector know that no more contact will be made over the phone unless a validation notice is provided. 

4. File a formal grievance to the CFPB about the scam caller through their website consumerfinance.gov/complaint/ or by calling (855) 411-CFPB (2372).

5. Communicate with personal creditors about the “collectors” who have been calling you. Your creditors will be able to provide information regarding who they have permitted to contact you to inquire about potential debts.

6. If all the previously mentioned tips are ineffective, you are legally able to send collectors a letter that insists that they refrain from contacting you. Collectors who receive these written letters are lawfully required to abide by your requests. It is important to keep in mind that sending such letters to legitimate collectors will not erase any potential debts you owe. Collectors may still be able to sue you or provide your debt information to companies that report credit. 

Progressive Debt Relief Is Here to Help

Here at Progressive Debt Relief, we know that having to deal with paying off debts and managing calls from debt collectors is a complicated and stressful experience, especially if the legitimacy of the calls is uncertain. That’s why, for over a decade, Progressive Debt Relief have been providing our clients with beneficial services that focus on settling all of your debt related issues as efficiently and effectively as possible. Our client-first mentality is why we offer free consultations and no upfront fees. 

Our team of debt consolidation experts are dedicated to alleviating your debt-related stress by personally negotiating with your creditors. For more information about our debt relief services, as well as how to schedule a free consultation, visit the free consultation page of our website or call us at 1-877-590-1847.