Portfolio Recovery AssociatesPortfolio Recovery Associates Portfolio Recovery is trying to collect on a debt that a) I never had, and b) is from 1998. Lots of phone calls!!! Ripoff Norfolk Virginia

I was called about 1 month ago by Portfolio Recovery Associates on a debt for a Bank One Visa card I have never had. They stated that I owed $894, but they were willing to make a deal if I paid that day. Of course I said no, because I never had a Bank One Visa Card, and the debt is supposedly from 1998.

I asked them to please send me information in the mail, and I would call them once I got it. I was told on the phone that they would call me within 5 days. I never got anything from them, and I never received a return call from them... Until this week, when the harassing phone calls started once again. I have not answered the phone when they call (thanks to caller ID), but I am frustrated, and put out that they are harassing me like this.

What can I legally do? I have already pulled up 2 credit reports, and both are free from this debt. I have read that taking their calls is one of the worst things to do, but how do I get the phone to stop ringing??? And what kind of lawyer would I contact to possibly file a lawsuit?

Heather
Gaithersburg, Maryland
U.S.A.