We’ve received a number of complaints regarding threatening “debt collector” telephone calls.
Callers are no longer just targeting land lines. As the publicity and availability of cell phone numbers has broadened, we’ve found that scammers are calling cell phones, too.
Scammers, posing as debt collectors or collection agencies are calling individuals to try to get them to pay them when there has been no debt incurred.
Often, the scammer will become aggressive, abusive, and threatening on the phone, claiming that the victim will be subject to criminal prosecution if payment isn’t made immediately.
It is sometimes hard to tell the difference between legitimate collectors and scammers. There are some red flags that you can look out for: (these, among others)
The caller asks you for information.
They called you, right? They should have your information already.
If the caller is asking you for your information, it shows that they’re likely not legitimate.
NEVER give your Social Security Number
NEVER give your bank account number
NEVER give your address
NEVER give your credit card number
The caller is overly abusive and harassing.
Legitimate agencies have been known to use harassing tactics, scammers push much further and make over-the-top, abusive, threats. Possibly telling you that they have filed a law-suit, have contacted the Police, or that you will be arrested.
The caller doesn’t accept common forms of payment.
Some of our reports have stated that the caller has given instruction to obtain a MoneyGram, to use Western Union, or to wire the money somehow.
These methods are uncommon, and are harder to trace.
The caller refuses to give physical address or name.
This of course, is an immediate red flag.
Any legitimate agency will readily give you a name, address, and the agency name.
In fact, they’ll likely give it when you answer the phone “This is… calling from… on a recorded line…”.
The caller demands payment TODAY.
Scammers have been insisting on receiving payment immediately, stating that there will be a penalty for not paying, and creating a sense of urgency.
Legitimate agencies would like payment immediately, too but they rarely threaten immediate punishment.
The caller answers immediately.
Legitimate collection agencies use complicated phone systems to call customers. You’ll notice that if you talk to a legitimate agency, it takes a moment for the system to connect the call.
What do you do if you think you’re being scammed?
Remain calm. Don’t escalate the situation. Once scammers know that you’re frightened they won’t give up.
Ask for a bill, or statement of debt, in writing, to the address that they have on file.
Write down the caller ID Phone number – you’ll need whatever it says on there for the Police Report.
Write down as much information about the caller as you can. Name, “company” name, phone number, amount they’re asking for. etc.
Contact your local Police Department.
