On January 13 Palisades Collection, L.L.C sent me a collection letter for a visa card with original creditor listed as Providian National Bank in the amount of 2395.18. Saying that this debt had been sold to them and that if the debt falls within the 7 year reporting period they intend to report to the various credit bureaus. This was a normal letter I get every 4-6 months from a different agency trying to collect on an expired debt from 1997. The scam smell came the 2nd letter when I opened it on February 15, saying that my original creditor was now International Portfolio Inc. Same account number debtor id and amount. The 2nd letter was a 50% discount opportunity saying that if I settle for half they will update my credit bureau profile as settled. So, essentially they are implying that they have reported this debt to my credit bureau (s) and that if I pay 1200.00 dollars they will update the debt. The reason I am a bit nervous about this letter is because why would they change the name of the original creditor. They know the debt is over 7 years old, 9 in fact so why would they now tell me If I pay half they will update my bureau. My lawyer was suppose to send them a cease and desist letter, which is how I deal with these pests, but he didn't get it out. He is supposed to be mailing them one today. My question is can they by changing the name of the original creditor somehow get this onto my pristine credit reports or is this just a tactic to get me to call to try to send them money. Why would they change the name of the original creditor? ANy uggestions or counseling would be appreciated. I have very good credit and if they somehow fraudulently put this expired debt on my report you guys may be reading about me in the paper! THanks for any advice.
Chris
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