The FCA says that some unregulated firms collect people’s details, through cold calling or online adverts, sometimes impersonating debt advice charities or debt collectors, and pass this information on to firms offering debt solutions that you pay for.
A quick search online will throw up lots of businesses offering ways to clear your debt, not all of which are trustworthy, according to charities.
Warning signs of unscrupulous firms include pressure tactics, such as repeated contact, often in messages and on the phone, pushing people to agree to a debt solution, the FCA says.
Some people have been encouraged to change financial details on lenders’ paperwork, or are “coached” in ways to respond.
Sometimes people are steered towards a fee-charging debt solution, such as Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs) or some debt management plans, without alternative options being properly explained or offered first.
And, do you know who you are talking to? Ask them who they work for, and check if their details match the firm’s official details.
“Before making any decisions around how to deal with your debts, it’s always worth getting full, free and impartial debt advice first, exploring all options to clear your debt in the safest and most sustainable way,” said Vikki Brownridge, chief executive at debt charity StepChange.