The names are new, the scam is well known: The alleged debt collection agencies TCN Inkasso & Collect AG and Business Plus inkasso AG are currently asking many people in Thuringia to settle alleged claims from a competition contract.

Photo: VZTH / Rip-off by debt collection agencies
Photo: VZTH

“Our client has authorized us to demand the reminder listed below from their telephone registration for the 'Lotto 6 out of 49' service contract,” it says identically in the letters from TCN Inkasso & Collect AG and Business Plus inkasso AG, which are full of errors. Those contacted should transfer a mid-three-digit amount to a bank account with a Greek IBAN within seven days. Otherwise there is a risk of foreclosure, seizure of salaries, unemployment benefits, pensions, bank balances and insurance policies.

These debt collection agencies create an absurd threat backdrop...

“An absurd threat is being created here,” says Tino Wicknig, consumer rights advisor at the Thuringia Consumer Center. “Numerous spelling errors in the text and the specified account abroad also indicate that these cannot be reputable debt collection companies. Above all, the registration number of the debt collection agency is missing from the letters.” Anyone who receives such a letter does not have to respond to it.

The case would be different if there were actually outstanding payments that a registered debt collection agency was demanding. If the reminder comes from a court, those affected should seek legal advice, for example from the consumer advice center.

Use the consumer advice center’s debt collection check

With the debt collection check from the consumer advice center, those affected can check debt collection claims free of charge and determine whether the amount of the costs is justified.

The website of the Federal Bar Association or the legal services register provide information as to whether a law firm or debt collection agency is approved. Companies without registration and therefore without a license to operate a debt collection company are not authorized to collect debts for third parties.

If you have any doubts as to whether debt collection letters are justified, you can contact the Thuringia Consumer Advice Center directly. Consumers can make an appointment for a personal consultation by calling the central service number (0361) 555 14 0.

Source: Thuringia Consumer Center

Related to the topic: How to deal with debt collection letters correctly


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