Sleazy debt-collection agencies are now targeting people who do not owe debts — and bullying them into paying up for the real culprits.
How is this even possible? Weak laws allow them to harass the innocent for debts they never incurred in the hope that they will eventually cough up the money just to get rid of the pesky calls. If they do not suceed, they simply sell the debt to another collection agency and the whole sleazy cycle repeats all over again.
What if you fall victim to this new con trick?
You must write them a certified letter, return receipt requested, making it clear the collector has contacted the wrong party, that you don’t owe the debt and that you don’t want to be called again. You need to do this within 30 days or the collector can assume the debt is valid.
Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, collectors are supposed to advise consumers that they have a right to dispute the debt, but that if consumers don’t do so promptly — and in writing — the collector can assume after 30 days that the debt is valid.
Once collectors are notified that they’ve contacted the wrong party or that the consumer denies owing the debt, the companies are supposed to provide proof of the debts’ validity. If they can’t supply the proof, collections are required by law to cease.
Of course, some collectors simply ignore laws designed to protect consumers. But debt experts say your chances of getting a collector to back off improve when you know your rights and assert them forcefully.
References: MSN
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