I have recently been contacted via snail mail by this agency, the United Collection Bureau. They represent the OH Attorney General's Office as well as other companies or entities attempting to collect alleged debt. So being an entitiy to enforce collection activity for the OH Attorney General's Office, they probably feel 'empowered' to collect on 'any' debt by any means available. This is a FALLACY on the part of UCB. \r
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I was a bill collector for 2 years myself. From the reviews shared by many of you, it sounds as though this company is an 'In-House' collection agency. In-House collection agencies feel as though they think they are not regulated by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act of 1977. But they indeed are held to the same consumer protections rights and laws owed to all Americans under the act. \r
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My experience has not been as appalling as those shared on this site, as I have only been contacted by them via the US Postal Service through an initial letter from their agency. \r
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But being a former collector I have sent them certified mail warning them to not contact me by any 'telephonic' means at their disposal and if they do I will immediately contact my own State Attorney General's Office (MN) and file Civil and criminal suit against their agency. All of you have the same rights. And don't think it's ever too late to do so. \r
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Any consumer that is being harrassed by such an agency can and shoul reach out to their state's Attorney General, Governor and or Congress person for support in their endeavors to cease and desist this type of collection activities. \r
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There are laws on the books that protect you from these business practices. Seach on google under 'Fair Debt Collection Practices Act' and you'll find a PDF file that will explain your rights as a consumer against attack from agencies such as UCB.\r
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One more step that you can take is to send this agency, and any entities that represent them, a letter to 'cease and desist' any further communication to you, family, friends or third parties altogether. You can find a 'template' provided through google search. Search under 'cease and desist' letter.\r
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I'll update this site with my outcome which I feel will be successful. \r
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Best to All,\r
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SB
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