It is not just jme saying this. (Although, I would say it.) MSN recently reported on collection agencies bullying innocent consumers into paying debts that were not theirs! Listen to this:
“Regulators say collection agencies increasingly are harassing innocent people and badgering consumers into paying money they don’t owe. More people complain to the Federal Trade Commission about debt collectors than about any other industry, and consumer attorneys say a booming trade in old, poorly documented debts is fueling the problem.”
Direct from MSN.
If you are contacted by a collection agency, immediately demand that they verify the debt. Make sure it is you. If it is not, tell them to stop contacting you. If they keep contacting you, then make sure you know your rights!