How do I tell if a debt collector is legitimate or a scam? | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (2024)

The debt collector should provide information about themselves and their collection agency. This can be a helpful way to know more about the debt, as well as 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 help you verify this information, you can find out more information about the collector though your state attorney general and state regulator.

Learn more about what information debt collectors need to provide

Warning signs of a debt collection scam

Here are a few red flags signaling a debt collection call could be a scam:

• The debt collector threatens you with criminal charges. There are only a few circ*mstances when a debt can lead to an arrest. Legitimate debt collectors should not claim that they'll have you arrested.
• 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 generally required to provide you information in the initial communication or within five days of the initial communication. You can also use this sample letter to request more information and an explanation in writing before you pay.
• The debt collector refuses to give you a mailing address or phone number.
• The debt collector asks you for your personal financial information. You should never provide anyone with your personal financial information unless you are sure they're 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.