Is this debt collector real?
A fake collector may threaten arrest, lawsuits, or public embarrassment over a debt you do not recognize.
“Pay this old loan by 5 p.m. or we will issue an arrest warrant and contact your employer.”
Why this is suspicious
Legitimate collectors have rules to follow and must provide information about the debt. A collector cannot have you arrested simply for failing to pay a consumer debt.
Warning signs
- They refuse to identify the original creditor
- They threaten arrest or violence
- They demand payment before sending written information
- They request gift cards or another unusual method
What to do next
- Do not provide bank information during the call
- Ask for the collector's name, company, address, and written validation
- Check your credit reports and contact the original creditor
- Report threats or deceptive collection practices
If you already clicked or paid
For guidance on what to do after a possible scam, visit the FTC’s recovery guide. It covers different situations, including payments and personal information.
Official source: FTC debt collection guidance
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