February 12, 2010
How can a debt collector use different cell phone numbers to call you?
jediaxo asked:
I have a debt collector that keeps calling me and using different local cell phone numbers. Even though I keep telling them that the debt is paid off and I have my cancelled check that I keep faxing to them over and over and over again, they won’t stop calling me. How is it that they can use other people’s cell phone numbers? And is there a chance they use mine to call people?
I have a debt collector that keeps calling me and using different local cell phone numbers. Even though I keep telling them that the debt is paid off and I have my cancelled check that I keep faxing to them over and over and over again, they won’t stop calling me. How is it that they can use other people’s cell phone numbers? And is there a chance they use mine to call people?
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Comments on How can a debt collector use different cell phone numbers to call you?
anyone can buy as many pre-paid cell phones as they want and thus get an unlimited supply of numbers to call from.
no, they can’t use your number to call anyone else — that would require them to ‘spoof’ the phone system, which is illegal.
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you need to send them a written demand, accompanied by a xerox of your canceled check, that they cease calling you on this subject. When they next call, and they will, ask for a mailing address.
If they refuse to provide one, complain to your state’s agency that regulates this activity — a mailing address is legally required.
note that state law may say that what you think is a fully paid off debt may not be — that depends on circumstances that you haven’t provided here. use google to find your state’s laws on this.
According to the cell phone company rep that I spoke with, this is only possible if the company:
A) Actually has several different cell phone accounts that they rotate through, or
B) Uses an internet hack to send false caller ID information to your phone.
Option A is sneaky, while option B is flat out illegal.
I’d recommend that you contact your local Better Business Bureau to file a complaint against the collector. Make sure that you have the information on the debt as well as the name of the Debt collector company.
If you’ve kept a record of the numbers, you can go online and look up what company they have their phone service through, and file a harassment complaint with the phone company, which can get their phone access cut off.
Don’t give up, and don’t give in. Know your rights, and don’t let them threaten you. If necessary, find out if your phone can record the conversations, or use speaker phone and a tape recorder. Always be sure to inform the person you are recording that they are being recorded, or the tape won’t be good in court. And it’s amazing how nice people get when they think they are being recorded!
Google search for “Harassment Debt Collectors” for some more very good information.
* Debt collectors cannot contact you at work if the collector knows that your employer doesn’t approve of the calls.
* Collectors may not harass you, lie, or use unfair practices when they try to collect a debt. And they must honor a written request from you to stop further contact.
If this debt collector keeps calling you after the debt has been paid, you need to inform the federal trade commission, consumer protection.
Pre paid cell phones. There is also a program that was recently created where users can have their number appear as alternative phone number of their choice.
Hi,
I used “Credit Solution” to settle my debt and avoid bankruptcy.They managed to reduce my debt up to 58%.It’s legitimate . I came across this company on NBC News Special Edition.Check it out here: