Lifter
Los Angeles,#2Consumer Suggestion
Tue, September 23, 2003
"I don't know what the money was owed for but one was in 1991 and the other was in 1992." My friend, don't EVER pay anyone unless they validate an alleged debt. Camco (a.k.a. Scamco) is infamous for collecting on time barred debts. If they did indeed threaten your credit, they are liable. It's illegal. Furthermore, they also have a reputation for persuing debts that were PAID OFF or cleard in BK. It could have very well been a couple of bogus accounts that they bought for 5 cents on the dollar. Who knows. The absolute worst they can do to you is put an inquiry on your credit report which you can dispute. They CAN NOT place the collection account back on your credit report once it's beyond the statute of limitations UNLESS you make a payment. Their idea of validation is a signed document that doesn't PROVE anything. It will state how much you supposedly owe and to whom and little else. It's your RIGHT to insist on conclusive and compelling proof. Period. You have the right to see the contract with the original creditor which bears your signature and also proof that they have a right to collect on a purchased debt (underlying obligation) AND proof that you actually recieved the money that they claim you owe (reciept of funds). Sounds to me like you were an easy target. I'm very sorry. You must be an honest and trusting person. Bless your heart. Really. But never forget that these people are walking a VERY thin line. They are sharks that prey on peoples past mistakes and good faith. They break the law frequently by using illegal tactics and know they can get away with it because most folks won't step up to the plate and DO anything about it. DO NOT. DON'T. DON'T EVER... agree to pay them a cent if they call back with yet another claim. DON'T be intimidated by them. They CAN NOT sue you, place an entry on your CR, attach wages or ANYTHING. The law does not permit them to persue anything other than "voluntary payment". They are powerless. You'll be reading quite a bit about filing complains with the FTC, the state AG and so on. Do it. Don't forget the BBB in Illinois. Do anything and everything to get PROOF that you owed what they say you did. If you're tough and don't quit, you might just get your money back with interest and a settlment besides. Good Luck,