I was doing some checking on a debt collector that left a voice mail for one of my clients. In the voice mail, the debt collector threatened to turn this matter over to the DA for a bench warrant. (That is an obvious violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the Rosenthal Act.) So I googled the debt collector.
In this case, the debt collector is Four Star Resolution, LLC. Of course, they are also known as FourStar Resolution, LLC, 4Star Resolution LLC and 4 Star Resolution, LLC. So we will figure out which name is the right name. But I went to the Better Businsess Bureau website. And I found this warning:
“BBB has seen a major increase in collection agencies starting business in the Upstate New York area over the past several years. In an effort to keep consumers informed about which collection agencies are operating in accordance with federal and state law, we have asked for specific information from all collection agencies located in our service area, including proof of licensing, bonding, and or registration required by NY state or other governments where the business is located, as well as proof of licensing required by any state in which the business operates. This collection agency has not responded to our requests. BBB advises consumers to be aware of their rights in regard to collections. This includes New York States law prohibiting any collection agency from collecting on Payday loans in the State of New York. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) outlines prohibited behavior when attempting to collect a debt, and outlines specific rights for consumers. There are penalties for agencies found in violation of the Act. BBB advises consumers to become familiar with their rights under the Act, which can be found at the link below: http://upstateny.bbb.org/storage/75/documents/debtcollection.html To file a complaint with BBB click the link below: https://www.bbb.org/consumer-complaints/file-a-complaint/get-started”
This is the first time I have seen this. But it is interesting that there is a warning about debt collectors starting up in Upstate New York. Apparently, its a hot bed for debt collectors. I am dealing with three debt collectors up there who have warnings by the BBB.
If you get a call from a debt collector, take notes on what they say. If they leave a voice mail and you think its a violation of the law, save the voice mail. Do not give out your information to anyone. And if you have heard from Four Star Resolution, talk to an attorney. Based on the voice mail I heard and their lack of willingness to discuss it with me, it concerns me.