November 7, 2008, Newsletter Issue #77: Reporting Identity Theft and Debt Collectors

Tip of the Week

Tips on reporting identity theft to debt collectors:

If you get a call from a debt collector for fraudulent bills and/or accounts, ask for the collector's name, address, phone number, and details about the debt (account numbers, dates, amount billed). Ask to speak to a fraud investigator or supervisor. Calmly explain the case of identity theft and ask for details about information needed to support your claim. Ask for a written statement of your telephone conversation. Write a follow-up letter to report your case and send documentation reporting identity theft (police report, FTC affidavit, etc.). If you haven't taken steps to report identity theft to the police, the credit bureau, and the FTC, do so. Follow FTC and ITRC advice on steps to take when you've had your identity stolen. The debt collector is required by law to notify the creditor that you've been the victim of identity theft, but you should also call the creditor and speak to the fraud department. Explain the situation and request copies of your account transactions. Find out how to remove the account from your name. Request a written confirmation that your account has been closed, that you do not owe the debt, and that they have contacted the credit bureau to delete the record. If you fail to resolve the case, contact the debt collector's manager, creditor's manager, the American Collectors Association, the Better Business Bureau in your area, the FTC, or the Attorney General.

About LifeTips

Now one of the top on-line publishers in the world, LifeTips offers tips to millions of monthly visitors. Our mission mission is to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Expert writers earn dough for what they know. And exclusive sponsors in each niche topic help us make-it-all happen.