JBDR debt query.

coldharbourbikes

Hi there, I have recieved a number of agressive phone calls and letters from JBDR, who I see have form for this sort of thing, I have refused to give personal info out over the phone such as full name, address and DOB. I emailed then informing them I would not be communicating with them over the phone and that if they were to continue I would report them for being in breach of
The Protection from Harassment Act 1997. They have responded saying that before they can deal with my complaint, I must give them my full postal address and DOB due to the data protection act. Is this true? I would assume they wouldn't lie when I will have a record of this, but I don't trust them as far as I can throw them! Any help appreciated.

afly

coldharbourbikes wrote: »

They have responded saying that before they can deal with my complaint, I must give them my full postal address and DOB due to the data protection act.

Umm, I wouldnt of thought so no. I don't see what the DPA has to do with receiving a complaint, or am I misunderstanding? If you are not willing to discuss with them over the phone, then I can see a motive for wanting your full postage address. Coincidence? :think:

coldharbourbikes wrote: »

I would assume they wouldn't lie

coldharbourbikes

Sorry, wasnt too clear. I stated that if they wanted to discuss the supposed debt further, then they would hve to do it via email, that is why they requested address and DOB.

afly

Gotcha. They most likely want these details to confirm you are the debtor.

They will probably assume you are if you do not offer the information. Are they chasing a genuine debt of yours?

Well done for getting them off the phone by the way.

coldharbourbikes

I don't know if it is a genuine debt or not. I have used the firm they say I owe and at the house they have mentioned, but I remember paying all bills when I left, and they refuse to give me any information about the money owed, so I cannot make any sort of judgement on whether I do or not!

afly

Other members will know more about that. I would definitely want to know what the debt was for. Can you contact the firm in question and query them perhaps?

As a warning, I stupidly paid a debt collection agency on first call over the phone for an O2 debt. When I called O2 afterward they realised it was their error and wiped it. I still lost the £100 debt collection charge though so continue to be vigilant until you know more.

bargainbetty

Write to them from the address they have on file for you (no email). Do not sign the letter - print your signature only. Enclose a copy of the letter they sent you - they can hardly argue for further data when they have contacted you. You do not have to give them your DOB at all. (Yes, they will lie. If you can hear them talking, it's 50/50 they are telling lies at any given moment)

What is your specific complaint? Non-ownership of debt, statute-barred, telephone harassment etc? there are lots of templates, but you need to tell people what the complaint is before you can get the right letter.