Debt Collection Scam Protection

Summary

In California, its illegal for debt collectors to contact you without sending a written notice first, threaten a lawsuit they do not intend to file, or inflate the amount of debt. If you suspect a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission, local law enforcement, and the California Attorney Generals Office.

Full Conversation

I received a call from someone claiming to be with western asset group and associates, claiming that I owe money from a * loan. He claimed that if I did not pay him that same day that he would file papers and take me to court on the judgment but I told him I did not owe anything so I hung up, and I called the original creditors, and they told me I do not owe them the money that he claims I owe and he was charging three times what my original creditors only charge. So I’m curious if that is legal or if it’s a scam.
Did you receive any written notice about this debt before the call? In California, debt collectors are required to send a written notice before making contact by phone.
Not a single one.
In California, it's illegal for debt collectors to contact you without sending a written notice first. If you're sure it's a scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission and your local law enforcement.
can he threaten me with a judgment?
In California, it's illegal for debt collectors to threaten a lawsuit they do not intend to file. Did he provide any proof of the debt or the impending lawsuit?
no. He said that the paperwork was pending..that if I paid a down payment, he would stop the filing and settle in full.
What was the exact amount he was asking for? In California, it's illegal for debt collectors to inflate the amount of debt. You can report this to the California Attorney General's Office.
$*
What was the original amount of the debt according to your original creditors?
$*
In California, it's illegal for debt collectors to:

- Contact you without sending a written notice first.
- Threaten a lawsuit they do not intend to file.
- Inflate the amount of debt.

Report this to the Federal Trade Commission, local law enforcement, and the California Attorney General's Office.
Ok. Thank you
You're welcome, Krystal. If you need further assistance or have more questions, feel free to ask. Stay safe and be aware of such scams.