The latest scam alert involves phony debt collectors harassing consumers. It apparently hasn’t happened here yet, but Ran Hoth with the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau says the scammers accuse the victim of defaulting on a payday loan and claim they are being sued.

“Here in Wisconsin we’re very concerned because these calls are very intimidating,” says Hoth. “They seem to have Social Security information, old bank account information, possible drivers’ license and address and employment information. So this is potentially more dangerous for anyone receiving a call like this.”

Hoth says there may have been a data breach within the payday loan industry, which is why the scammers have some personal financial information on their potential victims. “Always ask for official documentation,” says Hoth. “Do not confirm or agree with any information that’s given to you over the phone. If it’s a real high pressure or threatening call, we want you to use the Federal Trade Commission, and also to file on line with the BBB.”

Hoth says calls in other states have been threatening jail time or extradition to another state unless the victim immediately wires $1000.

 AUDIO: Bob Hague reports (:60 MP3)