If a debt collector calls, do you know what to do? You have rights. Debt collectors can’t harass, lie, or treat you unfairly — even if you owe the debt. Before you pay, confirm a debt is actually yours — not someone else’s or a scam to get your money. Consider talking to the collector at least once to find out, even if you don’t think you owe the money. To help you avoid a scam, here’s what to do next.
Ask for “validation information” about the debt, which the collector has to give you, either when they first communicate with you or within five days of the first contact. That information includes: the collector’s name, the name of the creditor, the name and mailing address they have on file for the person they say…