ASG Recovers, also known as ASG Collections, was a US-based collection agency that claimed to be able to help people become debt free through a range of services -- but it's clear that this company does not belong in the same category as other collections agencies that we've covered. Unlike those agencies -- which are legitimate debt collectors -- ASG Recovers is a scam.
Keep reading to learn more about this company, what to do if they contact you, and what to look for to spot a scam in the future.
Just two years after launching their website, the company was hit with a Refrain and Desist order from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. This order prevents them from engaging in any form of collection activity and is indicative of their fraudulent behavior.
Pairing this with the negative feedback found on online discussion forums regarding the company, it's obvious that they are not to be trusted and you should take caution when disclosing any personal information should the company contact you.
It can be difficult to navigate the world of debt collection agencies and decide which ones are legitimate and which ones should be avoided at all costs. To make sure you're not taken advantage of by shady companies like ASG Recovers, it's important to educate yourself on typical earmarks of debt collection scams.
When dealing with debt collectors, it is important to be aware of common collection scams. Debt collectors must inform you of key information such as the name of the creditor, the amount owed, and that they will have to verify the debt if you dispute it. Ignoring or withholding such information should serve as a warning sign that something may not be right.
Similarly, debt collectors cannot legally threaten jail time for failure to pay a debt or pose as government officials. Those who do so are most likely attempting to deceive you into paying money by untraceable methods such as money transfers or prepaid cards - both of which can make it difficult for you to get your money back if taken advantage of.
It is important to remember that debt collection is a legitimate process enabled by law, but not every person claiming to represent a creditor or collections agency is always legitimate. To ensure you are not getting scammed, it's best practice to research any collector before
making any payments and to confirm that the details provided match up with what the original creditor has on file for your debts.
Some warning signs of debt collection scams include the following:
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a debt collector, and they demand that you pay the debt immediately, this is a red flag that it may be a scam. Legitimate debt collectors will not demand that you pay the debt immediately, and will give you time to review your options.
Another common sign of a debt collection scam is if the caller threatens legal action if you do not pay the debt. While legitimate debt collectors may take legal action if you do not pay your debt, they will not threaten to do so upfront.
If the caller refuses to give you information about the debt, such as the amount owed or the name of the creditor, this is another sign that it may be a scam. A legitimate debt collector will be able to provide you with this information.
Debt collectors are not allowed to use abusive language when attempting to collect a debt. If the caller is using profanity or otherwise being abusive, this is a sign that it may be a scam.
If you have asked the caller to stop contacting you, and they continue to call, this is another sign that it may be a scam. Legitimate debt collectors will honor your request and cease contact if you ask them to do so.
When in doubt, don't hesitate to contact an attorney’s office for more information and guidance on how to best protect yourself from fraudsters posing as debt collectors.
If you are contacted by a debt collection agency, it is important to protect yourself from potential scams. Before engaging in any further conversation with the caller, take the time to ask for their callback number and request additional information, such as their name, company name, street address.
Before paying any money or providing financial information, make sure that you have been given written notice about the debt or that you have received adequate information about the debt. It is also a good idea to contact your original creditor and find out who has been assigned to collect the debt if there are any doubts or suspicions.
No matter how persuasive the agent might be, under no circumstances should you agree to terms or make payments without first obtaining all necessary information and confirming it with your original creditor or another reliable source.
At Fair Credit, we can use our experience and knowledge of the industry to spot scams right away. If you've been taken advantage of by ASG Recovers, we can help you seek justice. Our qualified team of attorneys is standing by to help you get your finances - and your life - back on track. For additional information or a free case review, don't hesitate - contact us today.
Don't let these companies get away with violating your rights and causing you financial & emotional distress.