Roxburghe debt collectors... old 'debt'?

louisebt

Years ago I had a 3 mobile phone, i moved house and it worked for a while but then the signal just vanished.... my contract was coming to an end so I took out a contract with a different company and cleared the bill on my 3 phone. They, unknown to me, had taken out a new contract (i signed nothing, but recieved a new handset, which i sent back recorded delivery).... they rung me occasionally on my landline for a while but then it all went quiet..... they did try twice to send the handset back to me but i refused to accept delivery (it was signed for too).

Now, 4 years or so later, a few days back I had a text from Roxburghe solicitors asking me to call, which i ignored, i had no idea what it was, and today i've recieved a letter through the post. I have no idea how my new number has been traced and i've moved a good few times since this, but all of a sudden they seem to want to open this 'so called old debt' back up.

Apparently this is a 'contact us to arrange clearing the debt letter', so i'm guessing the nasty ones are yet to come... what should i do?, i dont have the proof of payment or proof of sending the phone back anymmore given it was over 4 years ago

louisebt

No one?.... i now seem to be on their 'to call the house phone' list, how they got the number i dont know but someone from the firm just called looking for me

DarkConvict

It maybe a fishing letter, so hold off on replying for now.

If they continue, 2/3+ more letters send a prove it letter here - http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showpost.html?p=11570893&postcount=2

If they are not sure on your address then they shouldn't send out letters, its worth noting all contact should be in writing to avoid them pressuring you into responses on the phone. In addition you can request the phone calls are stopped and your phone number removed from there system here - http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showpost.html?p=11571485&postcount=4

louisebt

Thank you, I will go read the links.... the man on the phone was rather stroppy and asked for me by name (i answered the phone), i told him he must have the wrong number (wrong I know but wasnt sure what to say), he asked if i was sure so i told him unless someones living under my bed then yes :eek:. It seems strange how 4 years of nothing then in 2 days a letter, text and call to the landline

DarkConvict

You will be surprised at how DCA's can find people, if you have done a credit check recently on yourself you will have supplied your latest address details and voila you are found.
It may well be that you have the same name as someone else who owes money.

As you cleared this with 3 already, they need to prove the debt is owed, not just because 3 say it is, they need proof. If they carry on ringing refuse to answer security questions as they can't under data protection discuss details without knowing it is you.

Also, if they threaten to 'send someone round' they need to do two things, make clear why they plan to do it (i.e. to verify the debt in person) and make an appointment. If you refuse the appointment and insist you will not and do not agree to one they can't legally send anyone to the house without a CCJ from a court. Which is along way off just trying to find the debtor in question.

louisebt

I've not spoken to them yet but they did send my mobile a text again earlier

DarkConvict

Since they have both your phone number and address, now maybe a good point to send the prove it letter. And proceed from there.

louisebt

Ok thank you, i'll send it and see what they have to say