How do I know if a letter from a debt collector is legitimate?

Knowing if a letter from a debt collector is legitimate is important in order to ensure that you are not being taken advantage of. The good news is, California has Collection Defense Law that is designed to protect consumers from deceptive practices. The first thing to look out for is the usual signs of a scam. If the letter instructs you to transfer money or provide personal information via wire transfers or cashier’s checks, be wary. Additionally, if the letter promises a prize or bonus in exchange for payment, this is also likely a scam. When determining if a letter is legitimate, consider its source – it should include contact information for the debt collector, including their name, address, phone number, and email address. There should also be a clear statement indicating that the sender is a debt collector. Additionally, any communication from the debt collector should include an explanation of the debt, including how much you owe, who you owe it to, and how you can dispute the debt. When in doubt, it is a good idea to contact the debt collector directly to confirm the legitimacy of the letter. This is especially important because, under California Collection Defense Law, debt collectors are prohibited from using harassing techniques when attempting to collect a debt. If you believe that a debt collector is using any such techniques, it is essential that you officially dispute the debt and contact a consumer rights attorney.

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How do I know if a letter from a debt collector is legitimate?

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