Q: I keep getting phone calls from what appears to be a deb collection service. What would be the best course of action?
It started about 3 weeks ago. They call once a day every day except weekends and holidays. I've been noting the phone numbers since it's almost always a different number, but most begin with 800. I looked up the numbers online and it indicates the same company. Further research gives conflicting information - some say it's a scam, others say it's a legit company. I don't have any debts of which I'm aware. All checks I've written have cleared except the last three, but they are too recent to have cleared. Other bills I've arranged to have them electronically withdrawn from a bank account. I have not received any notifications by mail.
I'm afraid to answer these calls - I might be asked for info that maybe I shouldn't give out. Their online site asks for my account information and I don't have an account with them. What would be best to do - answer the calls, ask the manager of the bank where I have my account about this, ask the CPA that prepares my taxes or consult a lawyer?
A: You should not answer these calls. Instead you should note the times and dates of the prior calls, and the numbers (this can usually be downloaded on your phone bill) and have an attorney prepare a cease and desist letter. If collection attempts continue after that, you may have a claim for money damages against the debt collector under the FDCPA.
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