Phished by Allied Interstate
Date: Tue, 12/19/2006 - 14:25
Wow, what an amazing site.
Here's my situation:
I've been getting computer-generated calls from allied interstate for a few weeks now--sometimes 2-3 messages per day.
Today was the first day that the message specified that they are trying to collect a debt. Fortunately, I had already Googled them, and thus came upon all your excellent information.
Today, I requested and received online my current credit reports from all 3 major agencies through the official website for free annual reports.
Allied Interstate is not listed as holding any of my debt. The one account that is in collection is with a legitimate agency. How do I know? They immediately confirmed my mailing address, said they were sending out a statement, and that I'd be able to mail them a check when I'd verified the debt.
Obviously, Allied Interstate has not provided me with any specifics as to my account or anyone to contact. Just a 1-800 or similar number.
What are my next steps? Must I phone them and subject myself to their abusive, threatening and unprofessional behavior just to get enough info to send them Cease and Desist and/or Validation letters?
Thanks.
You need to have the Allied Interstate3 before any payment is do
You need to have the Allied Interstate3 before any payment is done by you. This will not only ensure that the company is having your account but you will also know your money going to the right place. If you are not provided enough info that confirms their legitimate collections, don't send the money.
Keep a watch on your credit report, allied interstate should not hit anything negative in your credit report unless they prove your debt is with them.
Send a debt validation4 letter from your side and cover your base legally. The ball will be in their court and they will be legally forced to provide you the debt details.
Phished by Allied Interstate
Thanks. But how do I get any sort of account or reference information? Are my name and phone number enough? I really don't want to deal with these people on the phone. At all. And if I do, I will buy a recording device before I dial!
And since I have 30 days' access to my credit reports (current as of today), is there any reason I shouldn't submit a pre-emptive comment?
And I just noticed that there's a typo in my user name. I really meant funny _diva_.
Thanks again.
Hey Diva, Be sure to read the fdcpa closely and what the debt
Hey Diva,
Be sure to read the fdcpa closely and what the debt validation letter is requiring. Agencies that respond will send a simple one page letter which for all intense purposes, is nothing more than a bill. That According to what is called the Wollman opinion, a computer generated printout of the debt is not sufficient documentation. The FDCPA spells out what is required to validate a debt. If any of the attorney's are reading, they can set it straight if I am wrong. But like I said, there is enough case law out there that protects the consumer. If they send you back a simple document, I would fire one back that is even more strongly worded that they did not provide sufficient cause to validate the debt and that you consider the matter closed. Also include that you will seek legal action if they attempt to collect and/or report to the credit bureaus if the debt has not been validated. There are lots of form letters all over this site that can help. And if you do talk to them on the phone, tell them it's being recorded. They are more likely to remain professional. If they see that you are a fighter and not going to give in, then they may just go away. Unless the debt is realy valid. Then you have to negotiate.
Phished by Allied Interstate
Thanks, outlaw. I just read some of your posts on other threads, btw. You're great. It's nice to find people who are committed to helping others out--especially the "little" and those who "can't defend themselves."
I'm in Washington State, which is two-party for recording phone calls. Is it enough if I tell them I'm recording and they continue the conversation? (I mean, it's obviously enough for every corporate customer service department I've ever called!!)
Also, from your post, it looks like the reputable outfit that probably does have a valid debt may be cutting a corner or two. But I'll give them the benefit of the doubt until I get their promised letter.
My problem remains:
1) I have no idea what alleged debt allied interstate is trying to collect, or even if they're trying to contact me specifically instead of someone with my last name and first initial. (Clearly, this happens A LOT with AI).
2) I've pulled my credit reports from the three major bureaus, and they don't shed any light on this.
3) AI is known to be abusive (at best) and I don't want to give them any of my information when/if I return one of their computer-auto-dialed calls.
IOW, I don't feel I have enough information even to send a debt validation request.
Yes, if it is an actually valid debt, OK, I'll deal with it responsibly--as I am with the more "legit" collector that's actually listed on (one of) my credit reports.
But I have every reason to believe they are "phishing", and I don't want to put even an old tire or old boot on their hook, let alone any real, live information!
OK, maybe I'm just being a big ol' drama queen thinking my case is a bit different from the ones I've followed so far on this site. (I am a red-headed soprano, after all...)
At any riot, thank you outlaw and Johnson for your advice. And to everyone I've read so far on this forum who have offered constructive support, humor, or even just sincerely asked for help. This is clearly a great community, and I'm so happy I found you--even if I just mostly Lurk and Learn!
Happiest Holidays and Most Prosperous New Year to you all!
Diva