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By Peggy Stillwell on Feb 22nd, 2010
As consumers try to find ways to deal with their debt during tough times, some people out there might try to take advantage of the situation through scams.
Recently, the Better Business Bureau that serves Mississippi noted that its office - along with the national office - is receiving calls from consumers who are being targeted by scam artists. These scams often pop up during economic downturns, as thieves try to prey on people who may be in trouble.
"We regularly field calls from the victims of these scammers," said Bill Moak, president and CEO of the Mississippi office.
One of the scams that has been reported involves thieves calling people and trying to use "strong-arm tactics" to collect on debts that do not exist. Another involves thieves using email in order to try and get the personal or financial information of consumers, which they could use to open fake accounts.
Rather than fall for one of these scams, consumers may consider legitimate ways to deal with their debt. One option would be to go to a consumer credit counseling service, which can provide plans and advice on how to reduce credit card debt.