Don't feel discouraged, friends. This topic trails all the way back to 2005; likely before.
Your best mode of action, starting from step 1:
Step 1) Strike a letter and send it to SAM with certified mail, with a return receipt requested. In the letter, request documents that substantiate your responsibility to pay, such a contract with your signature or copy(ies) of photo IDs. Or, use this template and edit where appropriate:
DISPUTING WITH THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR
Date
Your Name
Name and Address
of original creditor
Re: Acct # 000-000-000-000
To Whom It May Concern:
This letter is regarding account # 000-000-000-000, which you claim I owe. This is not a refusal to pay, but a notice that your claim is disputed.
I am requesting validation, made pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Please note that I am requesting "validation"; that is competent evidence bearing my signature, showing that I have some contractual obligation to pay you.
Please also be aware that any negative mark found on my credit reports from your company or any company that you represent for a debt that I don't owe is a violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act; therefore if you cannot validate the debt, you must request that all credit reporting agencies delete the entry.
Pending the outcome of my investigation of any evidence that you submit, you are instructed to take no action that could be detrimental to any of my credit reports.
If you no longer own this debt, remove the derogatory marks from my credit report per the FCRA. Failure to respond within 30 days of receipt of this certified letter will result in legal action against your company. I will be seeking a minimum of $5,000 in damages for:
1. Defamation
2. Negligent Enablement of Identity Fraud
3. Violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act
For the purposes of 15 USC 1692 et seq., this Notice has the same effect as a dispute to the validity of the alleged debt and a dispute to the validity of your claims. This Notice is an attempt to correct your records, and any information received from you will be collected as evidence should any further action be necessary. This is a request for information only, and is not a statement, election, or waiver of status.
Best regards,
(insert your name)
Cc: (Insert a lawyer's name here), Esquire