How do I tell if a debt collector is legitimate or a scam?

Legitimate debt collectors tell you who they are and the company they work for, and give you details about the debt they say you owe. It could be a scam if they won’t share this information or if they threaten you, or ask for your personal information.

What are some warning signs of a debt collection scam?

Red flags that a debt collection call or message could be a scam:

• The debt collector threatens you or calls you late at night or at work.

There are laws to prohibit debt collectors from threatening or harassing you, or communicating with you at times or places that are inconvenient for you.

Debt collectors may also only reach out to other people for very limited reasons.

• The debt collector refuses to give you a mailing address or phone number.

The debt collector should provide information about themselves and their collection company. This can help you identify and validate the debt, and to tell whether or not it’s a scam.

To verify a debt collector, ask them to provide:

• Their name
• Company name
• Company street address
• Telephone number
• Professional license number, if your state licenses debt collectors

To check this information, you can contact your state attorney general and state regulator.

Learn more about what information debt collectors need to provide

• The debt collector refuses to give you information about your debt or is trying to collect a debt you don’t recognize.

Debt collectors are required to give you information about the debt when they first contact you or within five days.

• The debt collector threatens you with criminal charges.

There are only a few situations where a debt can lead to an arrest. A real debt collector should not claim they can have you arrested.

• The debt collector asks you for your personal financial information.

Do not share your personal financial information unless you are sure the debt collector is legitimate.

Learn more about what debt collectors can legally say or do

If you have an issue with debt collection, you can submit a complaint to the CFPB.

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