ARS National Services - Associated Recovery Systems Phony Debt Collection Escondido, California
Contacted by ARS representative claiming a debt owed on a Chase Visa card from 12/2008. I have never had a credit card with this bank. Rep attempted to get address, social security number and date of birth. When I asked what the charge on the credit card was for, another rep came on the line demanding that I verify my date of birth and other information. When I asked what her name was she became belligerent and continued to demand that I confirm personal information.
1 Updates & Rebuttals
John
Louisville,Kentucky,
U.S.A.
advise
#2Consumer Comment
Wed, February 10, 2010
When a debt collector first contacts you, you have rights under a federal law called the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Your first step should always be to request validation of the debt. Even if the debt is valid, request validation anyway.
Send them a letter via Certified Mail + Return Receipt (do not use regular mail) stating:
Per the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, I am requesting written validation of your claim, to include a copy of the original signed contract with my signature. I cannot respond to your claim until validation in this format has been submitted. A typed letter showing an account number and balance due is not proper validation.
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When they call back, tell them: I have sent a certified letter to your office officially requesting written validation of this alleged debt per my rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Per this federal law they must provide written validation within 30 days and they must cease collection activity until they send you written validation.