Expert: Christine Janklow - 9/20/2007

Question
Hello, Christine Janklow.
Before I consult with local counselor I'd like to get advice from you.
I'm getting phone calls from Law firm/debt collectors, they don't state exact issue and leave a prerecorded and live messages. I searched the numbers on the web. There are forums on similar cases when Law firms buy off debts and try to collect $ from people. The general advice on every forum - don't answer, don't call back, if they contact you - don't volunteer for ANY info.
What do you suggest me to do?
Thank you very much,  
Alec
P.S. I am sure I don't have any debts and never had them.

Would you shed light on this please: http://www.budhibbs.com/cease_comm.htm

Answer
Dear Alec:
Thank you for your inquiry. If these firms or debt collectors are not leaving you specific information as to the nature of their calls, one might assume that their calls are erroneous. However, without benefit of the background of your case, I must generalize what may be occurring.
1. The collection firm may simply have a wrong or transposed telephone number.
2. They may actually have a claim about a past due or charged off account in your name.
3. Incorrect information from the creditors.
The previous advise you have received is standard, but may not leave you with much peace of mind or sense of resolution. If you choose to contact the creditor in response to these calls, here is what you should know:
a. Tell them that you have received numerous calls regarding a business matter, provide them only the minimal information such as perhaps a file number they should have referenced, or your telephone number or last name. If they suggest that they have a claim against you, you have the right to ask for a "Debt Validation" letter. Every collector by law must provide this. Be prepared, many may want you to engage in conversation to attain more information from you, try to get you to pay or even deny there is such a thing as this letter. I assure you, they will know what this is.
b. If you decide you don't want any contact with them, then simply pull up a credit report on yourself to see if there are any claims or creditor "charge off" accounts posted by the firms contacting you. You are allowed one free report per year without doing anything negative to your FICO score. A good place to obtain this is by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com
Lastly, you can choose to ignore the calls, they may subside if they are unable to get a real person on the phone to discuss this.
You also needed clarification on the web link you provided. It appears this is a "Cease and Desist" letter format. I would not suggest using this unless you are absolutely sure and can provide proof that there are no valid claims against you and yet you are still being harassed by these creditors. Many people are issued lawsuits by sending these without that assurance.
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Respectfully,
Christine Janklow