What to do about collectors constantly calling my phone number for a debtor who has no connection to me.
by Kirk
(Sun Prairie, WI, USA)
Apparently a debtor has been using my home phone number on her credit applications. She must often default because I have been getting numerous calls from collection agents asking for this person who seems to be always using the same first name, but several last names have been used. I have asked the various agents to please remove my number from their lists but to no avail. I have had the same phone number for over 20 years so it's not possible that the debtor used to have the number. The volume of calls is starting to feel like harrassment, but the collection agents all say that the debtor gave my phone number and so they have the right to call it. I have asked for the details, the clients they're representing, etc. so that I can try to straighten out the records and possibly find the debtor that is using my phone number. Is there legal action I can take to get this problem resolved? It's not exactly identity theft but the hassle and aggravation are very tiresome. After reading articles about debtors suing collection agencies I'm tempted to pursue that, however not being the debtor I probably have no such option. Any advice will be very much appreciated!