Sometimes scammers try to get you to pay for debts you don't owe or don't exist at all.
That's a debt collection scam — but you can and should check on the collector and the supposed debt before you pay.
If a debt collector calls you, he or she is required to provide a debt validation notice within five days. This will give the name of the collection agency, the creditor, the account number connected to the debt, and the amount of the debt.
If you don't believe you owe the debt, you can send a letter requesting that the collector provide clear evidence of the debt.
Never share any personal information, like a social security number, with a debt collector. You should also check your credit report.
Always contact the creditor and, in the case of a supposed medical debt, your insurance company.
Some tip-offs that a collection is a scam:
* The collector threatens you with arrest or jail time. Legitimate collection companies don't do this because it violates the law.
* They demand immediate payment.
* They insist you pay by a gift card, wire transfer or a pre-paid debit card. These are virtually untraceable methods, which scammers love.
