Official warns of debt collector scam

(WTNH) -- The State Banking Commissioner is alerting residents of a phone scam in which callers pose as debt collectors.

The callers claim to be debt collectors and demand money. If they are met with resistance, they threaten to call the police. In many cases, the callers become afraid they will be arrested and pay up.

Officials say not only are they being scammed, but they are still responsible for paying off their original debt.

The callers have been known to call people's homes, cell phones and employers continuously.

"These calls have been increasingly common in the Connecticut," said Commissioner Howard Pitkin. "The Department of Banking is fielding about 40 calls a month on this issue. Recently, we had a consumer turn herself in to the New Haven police because she believed she was going to be arrested soon."

Those who receive such calls are encouraged to contact the Banking Department to determine the legitimacy of the call. The number is (860) 240-8170, or toll-free at 1-800-731-8225.

Complaints may also be filed on-line, at http://www.ct.gov/dob .