Difference Between a Legitimate Debt Collector and Scammers

Dealing with debt collection issues can be challenging. This is when you're not sure if the person you're being contacted by is legitimate or trying to scam. When an account like a credit card, auto loan, or all phone bills becomes past dues, the original creditor may attempt to collect the amount owed. It's best to hire a debt collector to sell it to a professional firm. Besides, you'll come across many debt collection agencies, and municipal debt collection agency can help you with all these issues.

Besides, some scammers may try to get you to pay on debts that you don't owe. Therefore, here's what you need to focus on.

Warning signs of debt scams

Withhold information

Any professional debt collection agency will inform you of the creditor's name and the amount owed. If you dispute the debt, the debt collector will have to obtain verification of the debt.

Suppose the collection firm fails to provide information during the initial contact. In that case, you may request the municipal debt collection agency to send a written notice within five days of that initial contact.

You don't recognize the debt that you owe

Our experts from the municipal debt collection agency recommend inquiring about making sure that you owe the debt. Remember, any debt collector who contacts you for payment is required by law to tell you information about the debt. This includes -

• The name of the creditor
• The amount owed

However, if you believe you do not owe the debt or that it's not even your debt, it's best to tell the callers that you will send a written request to the debt collector and receive more information about the debt.

Family, friends, or employer involvement

Some scammers may threaten to reveal your debt to family, friends, co-workers, or employers. In such a case, a debt collector is barred from revealing any information about the debt without permission. Instead, they may only ask others about their whereabouts to try and contact you.

Call you at inconvenient times

No debt collector is allowed to contact debtors at unusual times or places. For example, a scammer might be behind if they call you before 8 am or after 9 pm.

Learn to protect

Ask for a call back number

If you feel fishy when providing any information, you may always request the caller's name, company name, street address, and a callback number. Basically, you can use all this information to verify whether they are genuine. If they fail to provide any information or you land upon a non-functioning number, be sure it's a total scam.

Check the credit report

Every client is entitled to a free credit report every 12 months. However, you need to keep in mind that not all debt collectors and creditors can provide information to credit reporting companies. Also, if the debt is not on the credit report, that does not necessarily mean the debt is not valid.

Understand the rights

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act prohibits debt collectors from engaging in a variety of practices. For example, misrepresenting the debt, falsely claiming to be a lawyer, or using profane language can directly affect the business.

Submit a complaint

When you come across a suspicious call or think that you've been a victim of a scam, as a leading municipal debt collection agency, we recommend you to submit a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission or contact the state Attorney General's office.

Final Wrap

Collection agents are experts, and they can help you with comprehensive collection management. Partner today with a professional firm and enhance your collection possibilities.