Debt Collection Scams: How to Know the Difference

If you are being called by a debt collector, you may wonder – is this a scam? Unfortunately, there are scam artists that pose as a representative from a collection agency and trick unsuspecting callers into giving them personal bank and financial information. In some cases, these scammers may have even hacked into your credit report so they are able to ask about real debts that you owe.

Is Convergent Outsourcing a Scam?

If you have been contacted by Convergent Outsourcing, know that we are accredited by ACA International and have been in business since 1950. With Convergent Outsourcing, we do not buy or own your debt, so you may still verify that the debt is yours with the original creditor.

Red Flags for Collection Agency Scams

1. If the collector uses threats or harassment to get you to pay, it may be a scam. If the call is from a true collection agency, they are required to follow the regulations outlined in the FDCPA to prevent debt collector harassment. If the collector seems abusive or uses blatant threats or scare tactics, you may be the victim of a scam.
2. If the debt collector withholds information or refuses to answer questions about your debt. Be aware that when a debt collector calls, they are required to first confirm that you are the appropriate person to speak with about the debt - if a debt collector asks you to confirm your identify first, this is a sign of a legitimate debt collector. This is required by law to ensure that the debt collector does not discuss a debt with the wrong person. Keep in mind, details about the debt cannot be discussed or disclosed until certain identifiable information has been obtained. As the debtor, you have a right to ask for verification of the debt.
3. If the collector will not provide you with a business name. If you request the physical name of the collection agency they are calling from and the collector cannot or will not provide you with this information, this may be a sign that you are dealing with a scam.
4. If the debt collector demands immediate payment. Scammers may use threatening tactics to scare you into paying immediately so that you make an emotional decision over a rational one. While it is true that debt collection agencies are looking for payment when they call, they will not usually threaten immediate punishment if payment is not made that day.