If you think that a caller may be a fake debt collector, follow these steps:
Ask the caller for his or her name, company, street address, telephone number, and professional license number (or as much information as possible). Many states, but not all states, require debt collectors to be licensed. Check the information the caller provides you with state officials, or the state in which the debt collector holds a license. If the caller refuses or is unable to provide you with information about his company, or if you can’t verify the information he provides, do not give money to the caller or company.
Check if the company is RMAI Certified. If a company is listed as RMAI Certified, the debt collector is legitimate. However, there are legitimate debt collectors who have yet to become RMAI Certified.
Tell the caller that you will not discuss any debt until you get a written “validation notice.” This notice must include:
The amount of the debt
The name of the creditor you owe
A description of certain rights under the federal FDCPA
If a caller refuses to give you a validation notice, consider requesting this information in writing or seeking assistance before paying the debt to make sure the debt and the company are valid.
If you’re having trouble with debt collection, you can submit a complaint with the CFPB online or by calling (855) 411-2372.