Durned bill collectors trying to collect from the wrong person

In My Humble Opinion
1

I’ve had a hell of a time trying to decide if this should go here or The Pit, so I flipped a coin, and IMHO won. Therefore, I’ll (try to) keep it clean, and ask for some advice.

I have a bill collector who keeps trying to collect a debt from me. The problem is, I am neither the person named on the debt, nor have I done business with the telecommunications company listed in more than 10 years. The person who owes the money is named Iva <mylastname>, and this collection attempt has followed me through 2 addresses so far.

Up to now, I’ve just trashed the dunning letters, but this is getting annoying. I wrote them a letter last night, to the effect of “Who the f!ck is Iva, and why are you sending this BS to me?”, followed by a warning to stop because I’m not the droid they’re looking for or I’ll start making their life miserable.

So, fellow Dopers, what do I do next? They are sending this to the wrong person, and I’m inclined to have some fun at their expense. Opinions?

2

I would suggest telling them(by registered mail) to cease and desist, or the next missive will come from your lawyer. Try to refrain from doing anything “fun”, as this might indicate to them that you are the person they are looking for.

3

I’m going through something similar right now; in fact, I have an appointment with an attorney this afternoon.

I would go along with our esteemed moderator’s suggestion that you send them a letter informing them that Iva Vunder doesn’t live there and has no relationship to you. If they persist in trying to collect this debt from you, you will take legal action. Then do it.

Robin