Debt Recovery letter - DCBL / POP Telecom

slig

Hello,

I previously had my broadband through Pop Telcom (avoid them at all costs, FYI). I gave the required notice, ended my contract, and even paid £79 for a unreturned equipment fee. The last correspondence from them I had was from July and was an invoice for the unreturned equipment fee, which was taken out by direct debit.

I received a letter dated 19 August (don't check my postbox very often so I just found it) from a debt collection agency called DCBL saying I have an unpaid amount of £169.99. I have no idea what this is for as I understood my account was paid in full and I haven't received any emails or letters about this before now. I just logged into my Pop Telecom account and it says my outstanding balance is £0.

When I spoke to the debt collector on the phone, she read out an email address that wasn't mine, not sure if this is relevant. The name and address they have is correct.

What is the best way to find out what this charge is for, and potentially fight it? I'm able to pay it if I do owe it, but I need to know what it's for before I pay.

Brie

You might send them a letter to ask for proof of the debt. And do everything by post, not phone or email or text as that gives them easy ways to harass you.

use the provit letter - point 2.

DFW Sticky-Provit/Statute Barred Letters, Defaults, Mental Health Help and Guidance, all here. — MoneySavingExpert Forum

slig

Thanks - yeah I realised after I spoke to them by phone that they now have my phone number 😒 Whoops! I'll send them the Prove It letter, many thanks for your help.

bikerider2026

Hi, i've had the exact same letter, dated 19/08/2026, saying I have the unpaid amount of £169.99.

I am also sending them the 'prove it' letter and will let you know how it goes!

AFC_1955

I also received the same letter I contacted Pop Telecom and asked them what it was all about they have advised it was an "error" and have contacted DCBL to remove my details.