The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify that any lender with which they consider doing business holds a Washington State license for providing payday loan services. Consumers are urged to verify licensing status prior to giving the lender nonpublic personal information, such as social security number and checking account access.

DFI has received complaints against Clearlake Holdings doing business as MultiLoanSource.net. It appears that this entity is operating as a tribal online payday lender. This entity claims to be owned by The Guidiville Rancheria of California, a federally recognized Indian Tribe exercising its sovereign immunity subject to regulation by the United States Government.

Clearlake Holdings is not licensed by DFI. This entity is not registered to conduct business in Washington State by the Department of Licensing, the Department of Revenue, or the Secretary of State. Washington residents are advised that state law provides in RCW 31.45.105(1)(d) and (3) that a small loan made by an unlicensed entity to a person physically located in Washington is uncollectible and unenforceable in Washington State.

Clearlake Holdings uses a website: MultiLoanSource.net. It lists its phone number as (800) 557-9038. The address that has been associated with this entity is:

Clearlake Holdings
621 Medicine Way Ste. 3
Ukiah, CA 95482

If you have a complaint against MultiLoanSource.net, you can mail it to:

Tribal Lending Regulatory Authority
PO Box 339
Talmadge, CA 95481

Email complaints to: regulator@guidiville.net

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the "Verify a License" feature on DFI's website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Also doing business as:

• Red Pine Lending
• Green Pine Lending

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify that lenders are licensed. Consumers should make sure lenders are licensed before giving them checking account access and nonpublic information (like social security numbers).

DFI received complaints about Sokaogon Finance, Inc. d/b/a Red Pine Lending and Green Pine Lending. Red Pine Lending and Green Pine Lending are online lenders. They claim to be owned by the Sokaogon Chippewa Community of Mole Lake. The Sokaogon Chippewa Community is a federally recognized Indian Tribe. It exercises sovereign immunity and is subject to regulation by the United States Government.

Sokaogan Finance Inc., Red Pine Lending, and Green Pine Lending are not licensed by DFI. They are not registered to conduct business in Washington State with the Department of Licensing, the Department of Revenue, or the Secretary of State.

The following contact information is associated with these businesses:

Red Pine Lending
www.redpinelending.org
855-228-6723
3051 Sand Lake Road
Crandon, WI 54520

Green Pine Lending
www.greenpinelending.com
855-228-6727
3051 Sand Lake Road
Crandon, WI 54520

If you have a complaint against Sokaogan Finance, Inc., Red Pine Lending, or Green Pine Lending, you can mail it to:

Sokaogon Chippewa Community
Consumer Financial Services Commission
Re: Tribal Financial Services Dispute Resolution
3051 Sand Lake Road
Crandon, WI 54520

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the "Verify a License" feature on DFI's website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Debt Collection Scam

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify the identity of any person or entity claiming to represent a legitimate government agency or legitimate debt collection business. Consumers should not provide nonpublic personal information, such as social security number and checking account access, to anyone claiming to represent a government agency prior to confirming that the individual is properly affiliated with the government agency.

DFI received a complaint for what appears to be a debt collection scam. The consumer reported that she received a letter from “Jack Morrison Attorney at Law Simmons and Shaw L.L.P.” representing “United States District Court.” The consumer was told that she would be subject to arrest if she did not respond “within 48 hours.” The letter contained improperly manipulated government agency seals, other insignia, and employee signatures.

The following phone number is associated with the fraudulent letter:
(979) 212 - 7016

Government agencies generally neither issue arrest warrants via email nor contact individuals requesting sums of money to avoid arrest. The information contained in the letter was fraudulently used by a third party to facilitate a scam.

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the "Verify a License" feature on DFI's website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 382-4357 (1-877-FTC HELP), or online at www.ftc.gov.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 24, 2015
Originally posted: October 26, 2012

Also Doing Business As:

• Advance America
• Advance America Payday Loans

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of apparent scams conducted by people claiming to represent Advance America, Cash America, Cash Advance America, and Advance America Payday Loans.

Numerous consumers received phone calls from people claiming to represent Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans where the callers offered loans in exchange for upfront fees. Although several consumers never applied for a payday loan, the callers insisted that they were calling to discuss the consumers’ online payday loan applications. One consumer reported that, when she refused to wire money to the caller, the caller threatened legal action against her. Several other consumers paid the upfront fee, but did not receive the loan promised. At least one consumer also received a similar loan offer via e-mail.

Additionally, several consumers were contacted by people claiming that they were collecting a debt owed to Cash Advance America. One consumer reported receiving multiple harassing phone calls. The caller claimed that the consumer owed debt for a 2007 payday loan, but refused to provide any other details about the debt. The consumer reports that he did not take out any payday loans in 2007. In another case, a consumer received a text message demanding payment. That consumer reported that he’s never had a loan.

These apparent scams are associated with the following contact information:

206-855-3292
206-973-2544
210-272-9230
254-212-1137
315-625-1913
321-576-1077
360-362-5979
646-455-2995
503-379-5787
707-533-1466
716-240-0028
785-505-1459
818-570-6222

adam.smith@unitedcashadvance.in
cashadvanceamericas@rocketmail.com
americacashadv@gmail.com
mike@legislator.com

Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans are not licensed by Washington State of Department of Financial Institutions to provide loans. They are also not licensed to do business in Washington State.

There is a company doing business as Advance America that is licensed by DFI to provide small loans. However, this licensed company is not related to the apparent scams described above.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 24, 2015
Originally posted: April 29, 2013

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify the license of any lender they consider doing business with. If consumers are contacted by debt collectors, those consumers should verify the existence of the debt before paying the debt or giving out personal information.

Consumers report that they were targeted by collection and advanced fee loan scams where people claim to represent the following companies:

• Cashnet Payday
• ACS Incorp.
• Cash Net USA/Cash Net USA, Inc.
• Payday Services
• Cash USA, Inc.

In the collection scam, an individual who claimed to be “Officer Nishant Sharma” contacted a consumer via email. Officer Sharma claimed that he was attempting to collect a payday loan debt. However, the consumer did not owe the debt. Officer Sharma threatened to sue the consumer if he did not pay the debt immediately. He also threatened to contact the consumer’s employer. He instructed the consumer to send a payment to India via MoneyGram or Western Union.

Other consumers reported receiving emails and calls threatening legal action for delinquent payday loans that did not exist. One consumer reported that the representatives interchangeably used the company names Cash Net USA, Inc. and Cash USA, Inc.

Several consumers also report that they were targeted by advanced fee loan scams in which people claimed to represent Cash Net USA. The consumers were told that they could obtain loans if they first paid advanced fees. Two consumers paid the advanced fees and never received the loans. At least some of the consumers were targeted after they applied for loans online from unlicensed companies.

The following contact information is associated with these scams:

Cashnet Payday, ACS Incorp., Cash Net USA, Inc., Cash USA, and Payday Services are not licensed by DFI as lenders, or by the Washington State Department of Licensing as collection agencies.

CNU of Washington is Licensed

CNU of Washington, LLC d/b/a CashNetUSA is licensed by DFI. However, this licensed company is not associated with the above scams. According to CashNetUSA’s website, it has been targeted by unidentified and illegal organizations that are falsely claiming to represent the company. To learn more, you may visit the company’s website at: www.cashnetusa.com/consumer-notices.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Consumers who receive calls or e-mails from debt collectors should verify the existence of the debt. Consumers are urged to verify this before making payment arrangements or disclosing nonpublic personal information to anybody attempting to collect a debt.

DFI received a complaint about what appears to be a collection scam. A Washington State consumer reported that she received an e-mail claiming that she owed money to “USA Fast Cash” or “Payday Services.” The e-mail threatened the consumer with arrest if she did not pay the debt. The e-mail also threatened to disclose the debt to the consumer’s employer. However, the consumer states that she does not owe the debt.

The sender of the threatening e-mail claimed to represent “USA.Fast Cash Legal Group of Attorneys.” The following contact is associated with this threatening e-mail:

Phone: 347-753-8205
E-mail: bryan.davis@cashfastamerica.com

USA Fast Cash and Payday Services are not licensed by the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions. They are not registered to conduct business in Washington State by the Department of Licensing, the Department of Revenue, or the Secretary of State.

Washington residents are advised that state law provides in RCW 31.45.105(1)(d) and (3) that a small loan made by an unlicensed entity to a person physically located in Washington is uncollectible and unenforceable in Washington State.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Nationwide Biweekly Administration, Inc., License #1503

Accounts Deactivated - Borrowers Must Make Payments Directly To Their Lender Beginning January 1, 2016

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (“DFI”) has received notice from its licensee, Nationwide Biweekly Administration, Inc. (“NBA”), 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd., Xenia, OH 45385, that it has deactivated the biweekly payment program due to a loss of bank accounts. This deactivation affects approximately 3,500 consumers in Washington State. If you are one of the affected consumers, you should have received notice of this on or around November 22, 2015. If your contact information that you previously provided to NBA has changed, you should contact NBA immediately to provide your updated information. If you are unsure whether your account is affected, you should contact NBA immediately using one of the methods below.

Deactivated Services

NBA received notice of the loss of its bank accounts used to operate the biweekly payment program. NBA used the bank accounts to withdraw funds from a consumer’s checking account, hold those funds in trust, and then pay the consumer’s lender. Debits from the affected consumers’ bank accounts were suspended on or about November 20, 2015. Please monitor your bank account for the last debit and for potential receipt of remaining funds held on your behalf. The transfer will likely be identifiable as coming from “Nationwide BA.”

Affected Loan Payments

YOU MUST MAKE YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2016.

If you received notice your account was affected, starting with your January payment, you must make your full mortgage payment directly to your lender. Check your monthly mortgage statement from your lender for information about how much to pay and the options and location for making your payment. You may also wish to contact NBA for additional information.

Contact Information

NBA has set up a dedicated email address for affected consumers. You can send an email to NBA at: customercareTD@nbabiweekly.com. NBA has also set up an automated system for updates at: 1-855-418-0222.

Additionally, consumers may contact NBA at their customer service number at: 1-800-564-5693 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm EST).

If you live in Washington state and have questions about this Consumer Alert, please contact Cindy Fazio at 360-902-8800 or lfazio@dfi.wa.gov. If you live outside of the state of Washington, contact the company directly via the methods above or contact the Department of Financial Institutions in the state in which you live.

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify the license of any lender they consider doing business with. If consumers are contacted by debt collectors, consumers should verify that debt that being collected is debt that the consumer actually owes. DFI urges consumers to verify the debt before making payment arrangements or giving out nonpublic personal information.

A Washington State consumer reports that he was targeted by a collection scam. The consumer confirmed that he was targeted after he applied for loans from unlicensed companies online. In the scam, people sent threatening e-mails demanding payment for a debt that the consumer did not owe. The scammers told the consumer that the “FTC” would file criminal charges against him if he did not pay and that his “SSN is put on hold” until he pays. A phony arrest warrant was attached to the e-mails.

The scammers claim to represent the “Bureau of Defaulters Agency – FTC Incorporation.” At least one of them claimed to work for Coley Law Associates in Columbia, Maryland. No such law firm exists. The scammers identified so far claim that their names are Chris Matthews, Mike Johnson, and Steven Brown. They are using the following contact information.

m.davis.law156@hotmail.com
usa.attorney.lawcourt@outlook.com
court.lawsuit.mike@outlook.com
attorneyoflaw345@hotmail.com
fdcpa.law.usa@outlook.com

205-679-3971
317-268-5660
410-501-5474
443-938-9229

The Bureau of Defaulters Agency – FTC Incorporation is not licensed by DFI. It is also not licensed as a collection agency by the Washington State Department of Licensing. Consumers should also be aware that the Federal Trade Commission does not file criminal charges against consumers who default on consumer debt.

Washington residents are advised that state law provides in RCW 31.45.105(1)(d) and (3) that a small loan made by an unlicensed entity to a person physically located in Washington is uncollectible and unenforceable in Washington State.

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 30, 2015
Originally posted: February 22, 2011

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify the license of any lender they consider doing business with. If consumers are contacted by debt collectors, consumers should verify that debt that being collected is debt that the consumer actually owes. DFI urges consumers to verify the debt before making payment arrangements or giving out nonpublic personal information.

DFI has received complaints about what appears to be a collection scam. Consumers report receiving calls or e-mails claiming that the consumers owe debts that they do not actually owe. This scam appears to target consumers who applied for loans from unlicensed companies online. The people behind this scam claim that the consumers owe debt to companies with “ACS” in their names or the initials “ACS.” Examples include:

• American Cash Services
• American Cash Services USA
• Advance Cash Services
• Ace Cash Services
• ACS Legal Group

Some consumers report receiving repeated harassing collection calls. The callers call consumers at work and home. In some cases, they have called consumers’ credit references. The callers often threaten legal action. Many of the callers claim to be attorneys or members of law enforcement. The callers often have the consumer’s personal information such as checking account numbers and social security numbers.

Other consumers report receiving repeated harassing e-mails. These e-mails also threaten legal action, and may come from senders claiming to be attorneys or members of law enforcement. The people sending these e-mails also have access to consumers’ personal information.

The following contact information has been associated with this apparent scam:

210-775-2534
229-384-5700
303-261-8949
315-507-8391
347-468-8535
347-468-8964
404-410-2486
413-835-4855
607-595-1838
609-325-2479
629-325-2479
714-929-7223
832-232-0384

acs.legalassistance.us@gmail.com
collections@ace-cashexpress.com
collections.cashnet.us@gmail.com
collection.debt.acs@acs-settlement.com
corporations.legalorg@gmail.com
debt.collections@pcs-department.com
johnsmithacs@outlook.com
settlement.department@acscorps.com

None of the above-listed companies are licensed by DFI. These companies are also not registered with the Secretary of State, do not have a license to do business in Washington State, and are not licensed collection agencies.

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

High-tech tools called “skimmers” that allow thieves to steal your credit card information are still popping up across the country.

NBC Nightly News recently ran a story about how the use of credit card skimmers at gas stations, and ATMs is exploding

DFI this past summer also released an alert regarding ATM skimming devices showing up across Washington.

ATM skimming machines are devices that read your debit and credit card information when you swipe them. A camera may also be installed nearby to capture your PIN, giving thieves everything they need to access your account.

How to Protect Yourself

• Notice Your Surroundings
  Walk away from an ATM that looks suspicious or if you notice someone watching you. Report it to the ATM operator or nearby law enforcement.
• Cover Your PIN
  When entering your PIN, stand close to the machine and try to make it difficult for a person or camera to see you typing in your PIN.
• Review Your Account Statements
  Regularly review your account statements and report unauthorized withdrawals or purchases right away to your bank or credit card company.

What An ATM Skimmer Looks Like

What a skimming device looks like.

Skimming device installed on ATM machine.

Camera installed to capture your PIN.

What camera looks like to ATM customer.

Also Doing Business As:

• AFSA
• Priority Loan Servicing
• Cash Priority Loan Servicing
• Priority Personal Loan
• Priority Personal Loan Servicing LLC

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (“DFI”) warns consumers to verify the license of any lender with whom they consider doing business with. Consumers are urged to verify licensing status prior to giving any lender nonpublic personal information, such as social security number and checking account access.

DFI has received a report of what appears to be an advance fee loan scam. A consumer reported receiving an email approving the consumer for a loan. The email sent to the consumer included a letter and loan documents. The letter was signed by a person named David Jackson, who identified himself as a senior loan officer. The letter and loan documents referred to the lender by several names, including: American Financial Services Association, AFSA, Priority Loan Servicing, Cash Priority Loan Servicing, Priority Personal Loan, and Priority Personal Loan Servicing LLC.

After contacting the company, the consumer was told that she could not receive the loan unless she first paid a fee using a prepaid card.

The following contact information is associated with this company:
americanfinance.usa@gmail.com
585-861-1167, extension 299

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: December 03, 2015
Originally posted: November 12, 2014

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of what appears to be an attempt to fraudulently obtain personal bank information and an advance fee loan scam. A consumer reported that an entity representing itself to be from Ace Cash Express attempted to obtain the consumer’s bank information for purposes of transferring a loan to the consumer’s account. The entity said it would first need the consumer’s personal banking information. The consumer did not provide the information, and later contacted Ace Cash Express, a Washington State licensee, who did not have a record of a loan being offered to the consumer.

The following information is associated with the entity that is purportedly representing Ace Cash Express:

Email: acecashexpresusa@gmail.com
Telephone: 904-410-3947

Previously, a consumer reported receiving an email from an individual identifying himself as “Chris Thomas,” indicating that he was a loan officer representing Ace Cash Express. The email stated that the consumer was approved for a loan. After accepting the loan offer, the consumer learned that she could not receive the loan unless she first paid a fee using a prepaid card. The representative told the consumer that the fee would be refunded after she received the loan. However, after the consumer paid the fee, the representative demanded additional fees. The consumer never received the promised loan or a refund.

The consumer provided the following information that is allegedly tied to the company:

Email: visitus.acecashexpress@gmail.com
Telephone: 818-963-9250

Both these accounts are consistent with similar conduct from organizations or individuals engaging in scams.

ACECashExpress.com is Licensed

Although the company the representative is purporting to be from is ACE Cash Express, Inc., it should be noted that ACE Cash Express, Inc., website: www.acecashexpress.com is licensed with the Department of Financial Institutions. There is no indication that these communications are being made on behalf of this licensed company.

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the "Verify a License" feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Report Fraud

If you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the DFI at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357), or online at www.ftc.gov or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB (2372), or online at www.consumerfinance.gov.

Updated: December 03, 2015
Originally posted: February 02, 2015

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) was notified that a company stating it is collecting debts for Shoreline Online, LLC is contacting consumers by telephone regarding alleged payday loan debts owed by the consumers. A consumer stated that she was contacted to by Shoreline Online, LCC regarding a $2,000.00 loan and that she needed to pay a portion of it immediately or face legal and criminal action. The company did not provide substantiating information, and the consumer refused to pay the amount requested.

Washington State consumers previously identified this company as engaging in similar unlawful conduct. Specifically, representatives for the company contacted consumers by telephone and threatened that the consumer will be arrested or a court case instituted against them if the consumer does not pay the amount owed immediately. The company representative will refuse to provide proof of the validity of the debt. The company will call the consumer, the consumer’s relatives and friends, and the consumer’s place of employment repeatedly demanding payment for the debt.

This company is not licensed by the Department of Financial Institutions as a payday lender or by the Washington State Department of Revenue Business Licensing Service as a collections agent.

The following telephone number is associated with the company:
800-250-5831

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the "Verify a License" feature on DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/verify-license

Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 382-4357 (1-877-FTC HELP), or online at www.ftc.gov.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Department at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, go to this webpage to find the regulator in your home state. http://mortgage.nationwidelicensingsystem.org/consumer/Pages/AgencyContacts.aspx

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB (2372) or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 24, 2015
Originally posted: October 26, 2012

Also Doing Business As:

• Advance America
• Advance America Payday Loans

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of apparent scams conducted by people claiming to represent Advance America, Cash America, Cash Advance America, and Advance America Payday Loans.

Numerous consumers received phone calls from people claiming to represent Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans where the callers offered loans in exchange for upfront fees. Although several consumers never applied for a payday loan, the callers insisted that they were calling to discuss the consumers’ online payday loan applications. One consumer reported that, when she refused to wire money to the caller, the caller threatened legal action against her. Several other consumers paid the upfront fee, but did not receive the loan promised. At least one consumer also received a similar loan offer via e-mail.

Additionally, several consumers were contacted by people claiming that they were collecting a debt owed to Cash Advance America. One consumer reported receiving multiple harassing phone calls. The caller claimed that the consumer owed debt for a 2007 payday loan, but refused to provide any other details about the debt. The consumer reports that he did not take out any payday loans in 2007. In another case, a consumer received a text message demanding payment. That consumer reported that he’s never had a loan.

These apparent scams are associated with the following contact information:

206-855-3292
206-973-2544
210-272-9230
254-212-1137
315-625-1913
321-576-1077
360-362-5979
646-455-2995
503-379-5787
707-533-1466
716-240-0028
785-505-1459
818-570-6222

adam.smith@unitedcashadvance.in
cashadvanceamericas@rocketmail.com
americacashadv@gmail.com
mike@legislator.com

Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans are not licensed by Washington State of Department of Financial Institutions to provide loans. They are also not licensed to do business in Washington State.

There is a company doing business as Advance America that is licensed by DFI to provide small loans. However, this licensed company is not related to the apparent scams described above.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Consumers who receive calls or e-mails from debt collectors should verify the existence of the debt. Consumers are urged to verify this before making payment arrangements or disclosing nonpublic personal information to anybody attempting to collect a debt.

DFI received a complaint about what appears to be a collection scam. A Washington State consumer reported that she received an e-mail claiming that she owed money to “USA Fast Cash” or “Payday Services.” The e-mail threatened the consumer with arrest if she did not pay the debt. The e-mail also threatened to disclose the debt to the consumer’s employer. However, the consumer states that she does not owe the debt.

The sender of the threatening e-mail claimed to represent “USA.Fast Cash Legal Group of Attorneys.” The following contact is associated with this threatening e-mail:

Phone: 347-753-8205
E-mail: bryan.davis@cashfastamerica.com

USA Fast Cash and Payday Services are not licensed by the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions. They are not registered to conduct business in Washington State by the Department of Licensing, the Department of Revenue, or the Secretary of State.

Washington residents are advised that state law provides in RCW 31.45.105(1)(d) and (3) that a small loan made by an unlicensed entity to a person physically located in Washington is uncollectible and unenforceable in Washington State.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 24, 2015
Originally posted: April 29, 2013

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify the license of any lender they consider doing business with. If consumers are contacted by debt collectors, those consumers should verify the existence of the debt before paying the debt or giving out personal information.

Consumers report that they were targeted by collection and advanced fee loan scams where people claim to represent the following companies:

• Cashnet Payday
• ACS Incorp.
• Cash Net USA/Cash Net USA, Inc.
• Payday Services
• Cash USA, Inc.

In the collection scam, an individual who claimed to be “Officer Nishant Sharma” contacted a consumer via email. Officer Sharma claimed that he was attempting to collect a payday loan debt. However, the consumer did not owe the debt. Officer Sharma threatened to sue the consumer if he did not pay the debt immediately. He also threatened to contact the consumer’s employer. He instructed the consumer to send a payment to India via MoneyGram or Western Union.

Other consumers reported receiving emails and calls threatening legal action for delinquent payday loans that did not exist. One consumer reported that the representatives interchangeably used the company names Cash Net USA, Inc. and Cash USA, Inc.

Several consumers also report that they were targeted by advanced fee loan scams in which people claimed to represent Cash Net USA. The consumers were told that they could obtain loans if they first paid advanced fees. Two consumers paid the advanced fees and never received the loans. At least some of the consumers were targeted after they applied for loans online from unlicensed companies.

The following contact information is associated with these scams:

Cashnet Payday, ACS Incorp., Cash Net USA, Inc., Cash USA, and Payday Services are not licensed by DFI as lenders, or by the Washington State Department of Licensing as collection agencies.

CNU of Washington is Licensed

CNU of Washington, LLC d/b/a CashNetUSA is licensed by DFI. However, this licensed company is not associated with the above scams. According to CashNetUSA’s website, it has been targeted by unidentified and illegal organizations that are falsely claiming to represent the company. To learn more, you may visit the company’s website at: www.cashnetusa.com/consumer-notices.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 24, 2015
Originally posted: October 26, 2012

Also Doing Business As:

• Advance America
• Advance America Payday Loans

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of apparent scams conducted by people claiming to represent Advance America, Cash America, Cash Advance America, and Advance America Payday Loans.

Numerous consumers received phone calls from people claiming to represent Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans where the callers offered loans in exchange for upfront fees. Although several consumers never applied for a payday loan, the callers insisted that they were calling to discuss the consumers’ online payday loan applications. One consumer reported that, when she refused to wire money to the caller, the caller threatened legal action against her. Several other consumers paid the upfront fee, but did not receive the loan promised. At least one consumer also received a similar loan offer via e-mail.

Additionally, several consumers were contacted by people claiming that they were collecting a debt owed to Cash Advance America. One consumer reported receiving multiple harassing phone calls. The caller claimed that the consumer owed debt for a 2007 payday loan, but refused to provide any other details about the debt. The consumer reports that he did not take out any payday loans in 2007. In another case, a consumer received a text message demanding payment. That consumer reported that he’s never had a loan.

These apparent scams are associated with the following contact information:

206-855-3292
206-973-2544
210-272-9230
254-212-1137
315-625-1913
321-576-1077
360-362-5979
646-455-2995
503-379-5787
707-533-1466
716-240-0028
785-505-1459
818-570-6222

adam.smith@unitedcashadvance.in
cashadvanceamericas@rocketmail.com
americacashadv@gmail.com
mike@legislator.com

Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans are not licensed by Washington State of Department of Financial Institutions to provide loans. They are also not licensed to do business in Washington State.

There is a company doing business as Advance America that is licensed by DFI to provide small loans. However, this licensed company is not related to the apparent scams described above.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: 12/07/2015
Originally posted: 08/21/2014

Also Doing Business As:

• Advance America
• Cash Priority Loan Servicing
• Priority Loan Servicing
• Priority Payday Loan
• Priority Payday Loan Servicing LLC
• Cash Advance America-Pay Day Loan

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify that any lender with which they consider doing business holds a Washington State license for providing consumer loan services. Consumers are urged to verify licensing status prior to giving the lender nonpublic personal information, such as social security number and checking account access.

DFI has received a complaint against Cash Advance USA. It appears that this entity is operating an advance fee scam. Cash Advance USA is not licensed with the Department. The Department cautions consumers not to provide any personal or financial information to unlicensed businesses as such entities may be conducting a scam or otherwise violating Washington State law. Often times, an unlicensed business will require that the consumer pay a fee in advance of receiving a loan but will not provide the loan after receiving the consumer’s funds.

The following seemingly fictitious business phone numbers are also associated with Cash Advance USA:
1-502-422-3022
509-557-4641

Advanced Cash Services is not licensed by the Department. This entity is not registered to conduct business in Washington State by the Department of Licensing, the Department of Revenue, or the Secretary of State. Washington residents are advised that state law provides in RCW 31.45.105(1)(d) and (3) that a small loan made by an unlicensed entity to a person physically located in Washington is uncollectible and unenforceable in Washington State.

Advanced Cash Services has used an email address steve.smith@advancedcashsrvcs.com and does not have a listed telephone number or address.

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the "Verify a License" feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

Payday Loan Collection Laws

Washington State law prohibits threatening or harassing behavior by individuals attempting to collect a debt. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act states that debt collectors must send consumers a written notice within five days of the first collection phone call, stating the amount of the debt and what it relates to. Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Department at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, go to this webpage to find the regulator in your home state. http://mortgage.nationwidelicensingsystem.org/consumer/Pages/AgencyContacts.aspx

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB (2372) or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 24, 2015
Originally posted: April 29, 2013

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify the license of any lender they consider doing business with. If consumers are contacted by debt collectors, those consumers should verify the existence of the debt before paying the debt or giving out personal information.

Consumers report that they were targeted by collection and advanced fee loan scams where people claim to represent the following companies:

• Cashnet Payday
• ACS Incorp.
• Cash Net USA/Cash Net USA, Inc.
• Payday Services
• Cash USA, Inc.

In the collection scam, an individual who claimed to be “Officer Nishant Sharma” contacted a consumer via email. Officer Sharma claimed that he was attempting to collect a payday loan debt. However, the consumer did not owe the debt. Officer Sharma threatened to sue the consumer if he did not pay the debt immediately. He also threatened to contact the consumer’s employer. He instructed the consumer to send a payment to India via MoneyGram or Western Union.

Other consumers reported receiving emails and calls threatening legal action for delinquent payday loans that did not exist. One consumer reported that the representatives interchangeably used the company names Cash Net USA, Inc. and Cash USA, Inc.

Several consumers also report that they were targeted by advanced fee loan scams in which people claimed to represent Cash Net USA. The consumers were told that they could obtain loans if they first paid advanced fees. Two consumers paid the advanced fees and never received the loans. At least some of the consumers were targeted after they applied for loans online from unlicensed companies.

The following contact information is associated with these scams:

Cashnet Payday, ACS Incorp., Cash Net USA, Inc., Cash USA, and Payday Services are not licensed by DFI as lenders, or by the Washington State Department of Licensing as collection agencies.

CNU of Washington is Licensed

CNU of Washington, LLC d/b/a CashNetUSA is licensed by DFI. However, this licensed company is not associated with the above scams. According to CashNetUSA’s website, it has been targeted by unidentified and illegal organizations that are falsely claiming to represent the company. To learn more, you may visit the company’s website at: www.cashnetusa.com/consumer-notices.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.

Updated: November 24, 2015
Originally posted: October 26, 2012

Also Doing Business As:

• Advance America
• Advance America Payday Loans

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of apparent scams conducted by people claiming to represent Advance America, Cash America, Cash Advance America, and Advance America Payday Loans.

Numerous consumers received phone calls from people claiming to represent Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans where the callers offered loans in exchange for upfront fees. Although several consumers never applied for a payday loan, the callers insisted that they were calling to discuss the consumers’ online payday loan applications. One consumer reported that, when she refused to wire money to the caller, the caller threatened legal action against her. Several other consumers paid the upfront fee, but did not receive the loan promised. At least one consumer also received a similar loan offer via e-mail.

Additionally, several consumers were contacted by people claiming that they were collecting a debt owed to Cash Advance America. One consumer reported receiving multiple harassing phone calls. The caller claimed that the consumer owed debt for a 2007 payday loan, but refused to provide any other details about the debt. The consumer reports that he did not take out any payday loans in 2007. In another case, a consumer received a text message demanding payment. That consumer reported that he’s never had a loan.

These apparent scams are associated with the following contact information:

206-855-3292
206-973-2544
210-272-9230
254-212-1137
315-625-1913
321-576-1077
360-362-5979
646-455-2995
503-379-5787
707-533-1466
716-240-0028
785-505-1459
818-570-6222

adam.smith@unitedcashadvance.in
cashadvanceamericas@rocketmail.com
americacashadv@gmail.com
mike@legislator.com

Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans are not licensed by Washington State of Department of Financial Institutions to provide loans. They are also not licensed to do business in Washington State.

There is a company doing business as Advance America that is licensed by DFI to provide small loans. However, this licensed company is not related to the apparent scams described above.

Verify License

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business. Consumers can determine whether lenders are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the DFI’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov/consumers/findcompany.htm.

Payday Loan Debt Collection Laws

Collection activities are subject to the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Therefore, if you have questions regarding debt collection laws please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC HELP, or online at www.ftc.gov.

Debt collectors cannot state or imply that failure to pay a debt is a crime. They cannot call before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. They cannot harass or abuse consumers, or contact consumers' places of employment.

Report Fraud

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a payday lender please contact the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, find your state regulator.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam please contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357) or online at www.ftc.gov; or contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (855) 411-CFPB or online at www.consumerfinance.gov. Because the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, victims should consider themselves victims of identity theft and take appropriate precautions. The Federal Trade Commission has information for victims of identity theft available online at www.ftc.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam involving the Internet please contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center online at www.ic3.gov.

If you feel you have been the victim of a loan scam and are concerned about your personal financial information, contact your banking institution, and the three major credit bureaus.