I've been getting a ton of phone calls from banks, credit unions, and debt collectors looking for a woman named Melinda, who isn't me. I've explained multiple times that they have the wrong number, and even when they say they'll put me on a do-not-call list, the calls just keep coming. The collectors use different numbers almost every time, making it impossible to block them. I'm receiving several calls each day, and I'm wondering if there's any kind of registry or other method that can help me stop these calls for good. Simply telling them I'm not Melinda isn't cutting it anymore.
5 Answers
You should Google those numbers. If it's a scam, just block them!
I went through the same thing. The best tactic I found was to stop answering calls from numbers I don't know. It works — I barely get bothered now!
It's actually illegal for debt collectors to harass you about someone else's debts. You should check out resources from the government that explain your rights. Keep a log of when these calls happen, who calls, and their company name. If they keep bothering you, send them a formal letter stating you don't want to be contacted anymore, and mention that this harassment is against federal law. Sending it via mail with a delivery confirmation is a smart move. If they don't stop, you could even consider legal action! Here are some helpful links: [Consumer Financial Protection Bureau](https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/when-and-how-often-can-a-debt-collector-call-me-on-the-phone-en-2110/).
Know your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Write down the phone numbers and any names they use. I've seen cases where people won huge settlements because the collectors broke the law. It's rare, but it can happen!
Why not take the initiative? Ask them for their office number and demand to speak to a supervisor. Have them remove your number from their records and get a written confirmation. If they don’t comply, think about suing them in small claims for the harassment!
Thanks for the info!