To protect yourself from fake or inaccurate claims, request US Debt Validation from the collector. This process forces them to provide official documentation proving the debt is real and that they have the right to collect it. If they can’t verify it, they must stop collection efforts. Always act within 30 days of initial contact to fully exercise your consumer rights.

Another step worth mentioning is to check your credit report to see if the debt shows up there. Sometimes, collectors pursue accounts that don’t belong to you or are already resolved. Also, make sure any communication from them includes their company name, address, and phone number, and confirm that against state licensing databases if possible. Documenting everything in writing helps a lot, too, since phone calls can get messy.