UK Regulators Warning Consumers on Fake Debt Collection Letters

by Mike Bevel, CollectionIndustry.com

Sure, the Nigerian bank account scheme may be easy to spot at ten paces ? but there?s a new scam in town targeting United Kingdom consumers that might find its way stateside.

The new scam involves bogus collection letters from overseas debt collection firms. Dozens of UK residents have complained about the letters, which are from firms outside the UK and claim to be collecting money on an outstanding debt.

Officials are particularly concerned about the threatening nature of some of the letters — which include references to possible court action and the use of doorstep debt collectors. Officers say it appears that the aim is to frighten people into passing on their personal bank account details.