Alert Number: CA047070_9/8/17(9/18)
The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received complaints about a possible debt collection scam. Consumers reported receiving harassing calls demanding payment for a debt. The caller often refused to provide details and, in some cases, threatened legal action. Consumers reported the caller claimed to represent companies like Kenwood Services, LLC; EP Processing, LLC; and Twin Bluff Financial.
Variations of the name "CFS" have been used by callers:
- CFS
- CFS Services
- CFS Holding / CFS Holdings
- CFS Holding, LLC d/b/a Creative Financial Staff
Consumers reported these phone numbers: 888-818-8709 and 855-386-1187.
CFS is not licensed by the DFI or registered to do business in Washington State.
Warnings for Washington Consumers
- Never send money or provide your bank/credit card details in response to threatening calls or emails.
- Always verify a company's identity before sharing personal information.
- Check a company's license on the DFI website: www.dfi.wa.gov.
- Verify collection agency licenses with the Department of Licensing: www.dol.wa.gov.
Important Information for Washington Consumers
Washington State law states that "small loans" (under $700) made by unlicensed entities are uncollectible. Payday lenders must offer installment plans if borrowers cannot repay on time.
Federal Debt Collection Laws
Collection activity may be subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). You can request a written validation notice to verify the debt. Contact the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP or www.ftc.gov for more information.
Identity Theft Protection
If a scammer has your personal or financial information, visit the FTC's website for guidance on preventing identity theft: www.ftc.gov.
Report Suspicious Activity
If you receive threatening calls or suspect fraud, contact DFI at 1-877-RING-DFI or www.dfi.wa.gov. You can also contact the Attorney General's office: www.atg.wa.gov.
If you're from another state, find your state's regulator at NMLS Consumer Agency Contacts.
If you're a victim of a scam, contact the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP or online at www.ftc.gov, or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at 855-411-CFPB.
If the scam involves the internet, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.