Text message from Debt Collector - Advice please

jones98746

I manage my own DMP and only have two debts left to sort out.

I’ve received several text messages from a company called AIC Corp saying it’s about my NatWest account. The texts include a link to make a payment or set up a plan. However, I haven’t had any letters or written correspondence from this company — only texts (three so far).

All my other debts are paid by standing order, which I set up after receiving official letters in the post and using the bank details on their letters. 

I can’t find any bank details for AIC to set up a standing order, although their website looks legitimate.

Should I set up a payment plan through the link they sent, or wait until I receive something in writing?

Firstly, I’m worried this might be a scam, although I don't think it is,  and I’d also prefer to pay by standing order if possible, but I can’t find their details.

Any advice, really, thank you in advance - should I just pay through the portal? 

Grumpelstiltskin

Have you received a default from Nat West?

twopenny

Could you go into a branch and ask?
If they can't answer they can give you a contact number to establish if this is genuine.

No, I would not reply.
Scammers don't set up sites to look unrealistic. They will know you are anxious, most people would be.

One thing you can do is look at Companies House.gov. that will tell you if they exist as a company.

jones98746

Grumpelstiltskin said:

Have you received a default from Nat West?

Yes, I’ve received a default, and AIC have mentioned my NatWest debt. I’m not comfortable paying through their online portal or using chat, so I’m thinking it’s better to request their bank details and explain how much I can afford to pay. I’d prefer to handle all communication by post rather than online. Is that the right way to approach this?

Grumpelstiltskin

Yes you can ask that all communication is by post, and you can ask them for their bank details as you want to set up a standing order.

fatbelly

Just ignore texts. If it's important, they will write.

AIC have bought a lot of debt recently so this could be genuine. However you should always respond to the first debt letter by sending a prove-it