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Debt collector with debt I don't owe

Hello. I got a validation notice in the mail two weeks ago for a debt I don't know nothing about. Then a debt collector called me and asked how I was going to pay the amount and when. I'm freaking out because I have no idea what he's talking about. The debt is supposed to be from a rental company that I've never even been to much less got something from him. Should I call an attorney about this or what should I do before this gets out of hand?

Demand Verification of debt from collector

Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), if you are contacted by a debt collector about a debt you do not owe, you have rights and options.  Within thirty (30) days of receiving the Validation Notice, you should send the debt collector a letter, return receipt requested, stating in very clear and simple language that you do not owe the debt in question. In the letter, you can demand that they not contact you again until they send you a verification of the debt. The debt collector must then provide some evidence to support their claim that you owe the money, such as a copy of the original bill or agreement with the business.

If that does not work, or if the collector continues to harass you, you should contact an attorney in Massachusetts that deals with illegal debt collection practices.  Under Massachusetts law, many type of illegal collection practices are punishable by treble damages and payment of the victim's attorney's fees.  Good luck.

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