Press releases
7 November 2006
OFT Warns Consumers Over Threatening Debt Collecting Mailing
Following a number of complaints to Consumer Direct, the OFT is warning consumers not to respond to letters claiming to be from an international debt collecting company.
The mailing from 'AstraDelph International Debt Collection', which is headed 'Notice of Issue of Litigation Proceedings', states that an outstanding debt is owed to an electronics website and that the debt has been passed on to them for recovery.
The letter goes on to explain that failure to pay could result in legal proceedings, a County Court Judgement or a visit from doorstep collectors, unless the recipient contacts them immediately on one of the numbers provided. The office address for AstraDelph is stated to be in the Czech Republic, and the international telephone numbers, which are not being answered, appear to be in Liechtenstein.
Consumer Direct has received a large number of calls from consumers who have received these letters. Consumers have complained that they have never placed orders with the electronics website in question. The OFT is currently investigating.
Amanda Elliot, Centre Manager for Consumer Direct London said:
'The OFT has advised us that anyone who receives one of these threatening letters should ignore it and not send money off or ring any of the numbers listed. If you are unsure what to do contact Consumer Direct immediately.'
You can contact Consumer Direct for clear, practical advice on 08454
04 05 06 or visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.
