BBB warns of debt collection scams targeting families

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Lisa Schiller of the Better Business Bureau joined us Monday, March 2 to explain how to spot phony debt collection calls, texts and letters.

Schiller said scammers often claim to represent loan companies, law firms or government agencies and threaten lawsuits, wage garnishment or arrest over debts victims do not owe. Some letters include personal details, such as the last four digits of a Social Security number, to seem legitimate.

She urged people to stay calm, request a written validation notice and never provide payment or personal information to unsolicited callers. Suspicious contacts can be reported to BBB Scam Tracker.

See more information from the BBB by clicking here.