My girlfriend started to get computer-generated phone messages in May which said she needed to contact "Lee Simpson" at a 800 number in regard to a "very important matter." A referral number for her case was given, but no company name was provided.
These "automated" phone messages started to come 3-5 times a day, always with the same message, but some with different 800 numbers to call up until 9 PM (EST)
When my girlfriend returned the call, the male on the other end stated that "Lee Simpson" was not in, but he could assist her. He did not identify who he was or what company he represented. He then told my girlfried that, "He couldn't find her file", but would she give him her Social Security number. She refused to do so, and again asked what the issue was about. He said to call back when "Lee Simpson" was in. Several computer-generated phone messages came after that call, all through the day, and early evening. One call was picked up and an "agent" came on the phone. She hung up, when she was asked to identify herself and what company she represented.
This morning, another male called back with a foreign accent. He said that my girlfriend owed AT&T money from an allegedly unpaid phone bill from March. (She no longer has an AT&T phone account) He wanted the payment in full that day, no excuses. When asked what company he represented and what phone number did he have for the alleged "debt", he stated that he represented "Superior Asset Management, in Ft. Walton, Beach, Florida". He would not provide the phone number or the account number that was allegedly in arrears. He would not provide his full name. When told that the bill would only be paid if a formal written request was sent from his company to my girlfriend with the proof of this debt, he said, "NO, it would have to be paid now." He was told he would not get a bank account number or credit card number. He was told he would not get paid at all without written proof and a formal demand letter from his company. He got very abusive, and when asked his company's address, he provided, PO Boc 1928, Ft. Walton Beach FL 32549. He then demanded that a check for the full amount be sent there, and he wasn't going to send written proof of the debt, as it was long past due. He did say he had her mailing address, and the one he repeated was accurate. (Note: You can get this information from any phone book or online directory). His tone was angry and he talked very fast, hoping that the person on the other end did not know the law, which was not the case. He also said that this debt was already on her credit report, and she could check with the credit reporting agencies. Since he continued to interrupt and be verbally abusive, the phone call was terminated. A review of the Better Business Bureau website indicated that 77 complaints have been filed against this company, and they operated formerly under other names like "Superior Credit Services" and "Superior Management". Your website indicates they are ripping consumers off and still collecting "stale" debts, that are past the statute of limitations for collection. I question if they are even bonded and licensed as a collection agency in the state of Florida, which is required. Don't let them intimidate you or your family. Get a copy of your credit report from all 3 credit reporting agencies, and check it carefully. Do not deal with these people or give them ANY personal information, or other phone numbers, no matter how intimidating they try to be, even if they threaten lawsuits. Make them send you a signed, written notice on company letterhead stationary of the alleged "debt", and ensure it is "legit" before you pay anything to anyone. Go back to the origninal company you did business with, to see if you indeed owe them any money or their payment records are incorrect. Never give out your bank account number or a credit card number for a "phone check" or online payment for an unproven "debt". Check to see the "statute of limitations" for collecting a personal or business debt in your state, and in Florida. Know the Fair Credit Reporting Act and your legal rights, and most of all, exercise them!
0 comments