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.

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to check that any lender they consider doing business with is licensed by Washington State to make consumer or payday loans.

During the holiday season, consumer spending reaches high levels, and shoppers often feel the need to borrow extra money. Unfortunately, advance fee scammers are lying in wait to take advantage of this need.

Advanced fee scammers pose as lenders. They tell you that they can’t fund your loan until you pay an upfront fee. However, you pay the fee and the loan never comes.

The first contact with these scammers comes in many forms. They may contact you by email, text message, or phone. You may even contact them by applying for a loan from an unlicensed company.

Regardless of the first contact, these scammers have one thing in common: They will ask you to pay before they give you the loan. Often they will instruct you to wire money or buy a pre-paid card and call them with the card number. They may even ask you to do this several times, each time with an excuse about why they need more money up front. Common excuses include wire fees, insurance, taxes, collateral, and proof of ability to repay.

“In the past three months we have received complaints against at least a dozen different advance fee scammers,” Consumer Services Division Director Charles Clark said. “Consumers should remember that very few legitimate small loan lenders will ask them to pay an advance fee.”

“DFI’s Division of Consumer Services is committed to ensuring Washington’s lending industry-follows all consumer protection lending laws, and has a heightened focus in the area of personal loans,” said DFI Director Scott Jarvis. “It’s appalling how many individuals continue to take financial advantage of others- especially at this time of the year.”

Verify Licenses

DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those lenders that are properly licensed to conduct business or are exempt from licensing by being a bank or credit union. 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

Washington State residents, if you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a lender, please contact the Department at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov. You can also go to the DFI web site and search for the names of suspected advance fee scammers.

If you live in another state, go to this webpage to find the regulator in your home state.  www.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.  If victims believe the scammers have access to bank account information and social security numbers, they 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.

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify that they any lender they considered doing business with is licensed by DFI. DFI urges consumers to verify licensing status before giving the lender nonpublic personal information, such as social security number and checking account access.

DFI has received complaints against Sierra Finance, LLC d/b/a Sierra Lending (Sierra Lending). Sierra Lending is an online lender that asserts that it is wholly owned by the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel, a federally-recognized Indian Tribe, and that it has sovereign immunity. Based on its claim of sovereign immunity, it asserts that it is not subject to regulation by the DFI and that only the United States Government has jurisdiction over federally recognized Indian Tribes and their business activities.

Sierra Lending is not licensed by DFI. Sierra Lending is not registered to conduct business in Washington State by the Department of Licensing, the Department of Revenue, or the Secretary of State.

Sierra Lending operates a website at www.sierralending.com. Its contact information is:

Email: customerservice@sierralending.com

Mail Address: PO Box 647
Santa Ysabel, CA 92070

Phone Number: 855-556-9477
Fax Number: 877-727-0525

If you have a complaint against Sierra Lending you can contact the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel. The Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel’s contact information is:

Phone Number: 760-765-0845
Fax Number: 760-765-2545
Email Address: info@iipaymantion-nsn.gov
Mailing Address: PO Box 130
Santa Ysabel, CA 92070

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 Department’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 Department at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, go to the following 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.

The State of Washington Department of Financial Institutions ("DFI") has received a complaint from a consumer in Washington against an entity by the name of Professional Legal Aid a/k/a Professional Law Assist ("PLA").

This entity appears to be providing or holding itself out to the public as able to provide loan modification services, and is not licensed by DFI to do so.

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 Department’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 Department at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, go to the following 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: 01/08/2016
Originally Posted: 02/18/2014

Washington State consumers report that entities calling themselves Priority Payday, Priority Payday Loan, and Priority Payday Loan Servicing LLC may be operating advanced fee loan scams.

One consumer reported that she submitted her personal information on several loan matching websites and, a short time later, she received phone calls and e-mails from entities offering her advance fee loans. Among those was Priority Payday. A representative of Priority Payday named John Benson offered the consumer a $3,000 loan if the consumer paid an advance fee of $219.98. Attached to John Benson’s e-mail were phony loan documents.

A second consumer received a similar e-mail from a person calling himself Robert Clark. Robert Clark claimed to represent Priority Payday Loan and Priority Payday Loan Servicing LLC. Phony loan documents were also attached to Robert Clark’s e-mail.

These apparent scams are associated with the following contact information:

209-916-4711
585-200-5788
585-633-7621
prioritydayday@hotmail.com
robertclark2717@gmail.com
www.pdiloans.com

DFI contacted the company providing phone service to Priority Payday. Based on phone records obtained, it appears that Priority Payday is located in India.

Priority Payday, Priority Payday Loan, and Priority Payday Loan Servicing LLC are not licensed to provide loans in Washington State. They are also not licensed to otherwise do business in Washington State. DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those consumer lenders that are properly licensed. Consumers can determine whether companies are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the Department’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

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.

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: January 8, 2016
Originally posted: October 26, 2012

Also Doing Business As:

• Advance America
• Advance America Payday Loans
• Cash America
• Cash Advance America

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. 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 loan.

These apparent scams are associated with the following contact information:

206-855-3292
206-973-2544
210-272-9230
254-212-1137
312-878-9045
315-625-1913
321-576-1077
360-362-5979
503-379-5787
585-200-5788
585-633-7621
646-455-2995
707-533-1466
716-240-0028
773-796-9886
785-505-1459
818-570-6222

adam.smith@unitedcashadvance.in
americacashadv@gmail.com
cashadvanceamericas@rocketmail.com
mike@legislator.com
robertclark2717@gmail.com

Cash Advance America, Cash America, and Advance America Payday Loans are not licensed by DFI 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.

Also Doing Business As

• Rolling Plains Cash
• Green Circle

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 The Wakpamni Lake Community Corporation (WLCC) d/b/a Rolling Plains Cash & Green Circle. It appears that this entity is operating as a tribal online small loan (payday) lender. WLCC claims to be owned by Oglala Sioux Tribe, a federally recognized Indian Tribe, which is protected by sovereign immunity and not subject to regulation by Washington State.

WLCC is not licensed by DFI and 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.

WLCC operates the following websites:

www.rollingplainscash.com
www.getgreencircle.com
www.blvdcash.com
www.checkadvanceusa.net
www.arrowheadadvance.com
www.foxhillscash.com
www.cashoncloud9.com
www.easycashonlinestore.com

If you have a complaint against WLCC d/b/a Rolling Plains Cash & Green Circle, you can contact the following representative from WLCC:

Sue Arigi
Director of Compliance – WLCC
888-570-1161, Ext. 111
sarigi@learn2comply.net

Further, if an unlicensed organization attempts to collect a debt by threatening wage garnishment, criminal penalty, or other legal action, please contact the Federal Trade Commission at the contact information listed below.

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 Department’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 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 the following 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.

“ACE CASH GROUP” SHOULD NOT BE CONFUSED WITH ACE CASH EXPRESS, WHICH IS A LICENSED LENDER IN WASHINGTON

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) received a report of what appears to be a debt collection scam.

Recently, a Washington State consumer received an e-mail that claims that the consumer failed to repay a loan from “ACE Cash Group.” The e-mail threatens to contact the consumer’s employer and threatens legal action if the debt is not paid by a certain date. The e-mail also contains the consumer’s personal information. The consumer stated that he does not owe the debt being collected. This scam may have targeted the consumer because he applied for an online payday loan in the past.

The following e-mail address and phone number have been associated with this apparent scam:

Email: jackbrown@acecashgroup.org
Tel: 1-202-239-0781

ACE Cash Group is not licensed to make loans in Washington State and is not licensed in Washington as a collection agency or debt buyer. It appears that ACE Cash Group is operating from outside of the United States.

DFI cautions that unlicensed entities often engage in certain practices that indicate they are committing a fraud or otherwise violating Washington State law. For instance, such entities often use non-business email addresses (such as @gmail.com, @yahoo.com, or other similar easily obtained email addresses) to send correspondence, threaten legal or criminal action if consumers do not reply immediately, or contain a variety of typographical and spelling errors in their correspondence to consumers.

However, at times, e-mails or letters from unlicensed entities engaging in fraudulent activity will contain accurate personal information, such as current or past addresses, active phone numbers, or social security numbers. DFI encourages consumers who receive communications containing personal information to contact their banks, credit reporting agencies, and the Social Security Administration to ensure there is no unauthorized activity on their accounts.

In all circumstances, DFI also strongly suggests verifying the business licensee of entity that is requesting personal or financial information, or attempting to collect funds.

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

If you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a lender, report directly to your state regulator: 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.

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 loans. 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 received a complaint for what appears to be an advanced fee loan scam. The consumer reported that she used an online lender portal “Personal Money Network” and was reportedly approved for $5,000.00 loan. The consumer informed the lender that she only needed a $2,500.00. The lender then told her she would need to provide “proof” that she could repay the loan by sending the lender $120.00 via MoneyGram. Though the consumer complied, the lender required several additional payments, and subsequently did not provide the loan amount. The lender also threatened to prosecute the consumer for “failing to pay her taxes” if she failed to provide additional funds. The consumer received paperwork from “Personal Money Network,” which appears to have contained a doctored company logo from personalmoneynetwork.com.

Previously, DFI received a complaint where a consumer received unsolicited phone call from someone from Easy Loans, claiming an association with Personal Money Network and Adworkz. The consumer was told he was approved for a $5000.00 loan, but would need to provide cash in advance to improve his credit score and the terms of the loan. After providing the cash amount, the consumer did not receive the loan and was not refunded the money he advanced for purposes of obtaining the loan.

Easy Loan is not licensed with the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions to make loans. They are not registered to do business in Washington by either the Department of Revenue or the Secretary of State.Adworkz, Inc. d/b/a Personal Money Network is a registered company, and appears to have no affiliation with Easy Loan.Adworkz d/b/a Personal Money Network reported to DFI that it has notified relevant law enforcement agencies of the debt collection scam.

The following contact information is associated with Easy Loan.

Phone: 815-981-8750
224-333-1840
224-333-1734
224-293-4199
877-678-6771
239-400-0550
224-293-4199

Names: Fenny Oscar

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.

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 any type of 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 from a Washington State consumer against Mountain Summit Financial, Inc. It appears that this entity is operating as an online payday lender at the following website: www.mountainsummitfinancial.com and may be charging fees in excess of the fees permissible under Washington State law. Mountain Summit Financial, Inc. asserts that it is wholly owned by the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake, a federally-recognized Indian Tribe.

Mountain Summit Financial, Inc. is not licensed by the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions. 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.

Mountain Summit Financial, Inc. operates a website at www.mountainsummitfinancial.com and lists its phone number as 855-819-7200 and its email address as customerservice@mountainsummitfinancial.com. The address that has been associated with this entity is:

Mountain Summit Financial, Inc.
635 E. Hwy 20
Upper Lake, CA 95485

If you have a complaint against Mountain Summit Financial, Inc. you can submit it to the company through their legal counsel at:

Karina Alvarez, Esq.
Rosette, LLP Attorneys at Law
193 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 255
Folsom, California 95630

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: 01/15/2016
Originally posted: 08/16/2013

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 a complaint against Arrow One, LLC d/b/a Arrow One Lending (Arrow One). The complaint alleges that representatives from Arrow One were attempting to collect on a small loan by engaging in unlawful debt collection practices, such as calling at odd hours, at an excessive frequency, by threatening wage garnishment, and threatening either civil suit or criminal prosecution.

It appears that Arrow One is operating as a Tribal online payday lender. Representatives from Arrow One stated it the entity wholly owned by the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel and that it is therefore not subject to DFI’s regulations (claiming that a concept known as sovereign immunity applies). As a result, Arrow One, LLC claims it is only subject to the United States federal government’s regulations.

Arrow One, LLC d/b/a Arrow One Lending is not licensed by DFI. This entity is not registered to conduct business in Washington State by 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.

Arrow One, LLC d/b/a Arrow One Lending has been associated with the following web address: www.arrowonelending.com, telephone number: (855) 836-3647, fax: (855) 727-0530, email address: customerservice@arrowonelending.com, and mailing address: PO Box 648, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070.

If you have a complaint against Arrow One, LLC d/b/a Arrow One Lending, you may wish to contact:

Arrow One, LLC
PO Box 648
Santa Ysabel, CA 92070

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.

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.

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) received a report of what appears to be an advance fee scam.

Recently, a Washington State consumer was contacted by someone claiming to represent Rosenblatt Financial Center. The representative stated the consumer was approved for a $5,000 loan but would first need to provide Rosenblatt Financial Center several payments via Western Union or MoneyGram. The consumer sent Rosenblatt Financial Center $748 via Western Union but has to date not received the proposed loan.

Rosenblatt Financial Center is not licensed to make loans in Washington State and is not licensed in Washington as a collection agency or debt buyer. Despite the address provided by Rosenblatt Financial Center to the Washington State consumer listed below, DFI has received information indicating that Rosenblatt Financial Center is operating from outside of the United States.

The following e-mail address and phone number have been associated with this apparent scam:

Email: Courtneysheppard@rosenblattcenter.com
Tel: (866) 724-8882
Address: 1620 5th Ave Ste 110
San Diego, CA 92101

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions cautions that unlicensed entities often engage in certain practices that indicate they are committing a fraud or otherwise violating Washington State law. For instance, such entities often use non-business email addresses (such as @gmail.com, @yahoo.com, or other similar easily obtained email addresses) to send correspondence, threaten legal or criminal action if consumers do not reply immediately, or contain a variety of typographical and spelling errors in their correspondence to consumers.

However, at times, e-mails or letters from unlicensed entities engaging in fraudulent activity will contain accurate personal information, such as current or past addresses, active phone numbers, or social security numbers. DFI encourages consumers who receive communications containing personal information to contact their banks, credit reporting agencies, and the Social Security Administration to ensure there is no unauthorized activity on their accounts.

In all circumstances, DFI also strongly suggests verifying the business licensee of entity that is requesting personal or financial information, or attempting to collect funds.

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.

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: January 8, 2016
Originally Posted: October 31, 2013

Also Doing Business As:

• Cash Advance
• US Cash Advance
• Cash Advance Inc
• and other entities using variations of the name “Cash Advance”

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of what appears to be a payday loan collection scam. Numerous consumers report that they were contacted by entities claiming to collect debt owed to companies with “Cash Advance” in their names. The collection attempts often involve threats of lawsuits, asset seizure, and arrest. The consumers targeted did not actually owe the debt being collected. At least some of the consumers were targeted after they applied for loans from unlicensed online lenders.

Several consumers received threatening e-mails attempting to collect debts allegedly owed a company owned by Cash Advance Inc. The emails list numerous payday lenders and claim these lenders are owned by Cash Advance Inc. Some of these e-mails were sent by people calling themselves Jason Marroitt and David Jones.

One consumer received an e-mail from a man calling himself William C. Jones, who claimed to work at a Federal Trade Commission office. He threatened to disclose the debt to the consumer’s employer, garnish her wages, and file a law suit against her. Another consumer received a similar e-mail from a person calling himself Neal Johnson. Fake U.S. District Court arrest warrants were attached to these e-mails.

Several consumers also report receiving phone calls from entities attempting to collect debts owed to Cash Advance, Cash Advance Group, and US Cash Advance. Some of the collection calls came from people who called themselves Brian Wilson, John Murphy, Jim Spencer, and Andrew Martin. Some calls also came from a person claiming to work for Peterson Law Group and Debt Collection USA. In another case, the caller threatened to seize the consumer’s bank account and serve the consumer with legal papers at his workplace unless he paid the debt. Another consumer was threatened with arrest.

In one case, the debt collector threatened that he could have an arrest warrant issued if the consumer did not immediately pay him with a credit card. In other cases, the debt collector demanded payment using a pre-paid card.

Here is the contact information that is associated with this apparent scam:

202-241-0332
202-751-2493
206-494-9996
210-272-9477
315-688-5088
347-468-8964
402-318-7075
443-403-2041
916-350-4501
951-223-6693

acs.collection.department@outlook.com
americafincen@gmail.com
bsdebtcollectors@gmail.com
cashadvancedebtsolution@gmail.com
cashadvanceinc1@aol.com
collection.cashadvance.inc@outlook.inc
debt.collections@pcs-department.com
dorothy.barnett2@aol.com
ericharrisondebtcollection@outlook.com
ethanmccord@outlook.com
federaltradecommissionlawfirm@gmail.com
jackmorrison730@gmail.com
johnsonlaw5@aol.com
neal.advocate@aol.com
robertwilson@legislator.com
settlement@usdebtcollection.com
travis-rasmusse@aol.com
vharris00120@gmail.com
watson.cashadv.america@outlook.com

12850 W 331 Ste. 60
Alpamont, UT 84201

8901 S Wilton Place
Los Angeles, CA 90047

25954 Eden Landing Rd.
Hayward, CA 94545

There is a licensed collection agency associated with one of the above addresses. However, there is no evidence that the licensed collection agency or its employees are perpetrating the scam at issue.

Those perpetrating this scam are not licensed by DFI. They are also not licensed as collection agencies by the Washington State Department of Licensing.

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.

Report Fraud

If you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a lender, report directly to your state regulator: 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.

The State of Washington Department of Financial Institutions ("DFI") has received a complaint from a consumer in Washington against an entity by the name of Professional Legal Aid a/k/a Professional Law Assist ("PLA").

This entity appears to be providing or holding itself out to the public as able to provide loan modification services, and is not licensed by DFI to do so.

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 Department’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 Department at 1-877-RING-DFI (746-4334), or online at www.dfi.wa.gov.

If you live in another state, go to the following 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: January 8, 2016
Originally Posted: October 31, 2013

Also Doing Business As:

• Cash Advance
• US Cash Advance
• Cash Advance Inc
• and other entities using variations of the name “Cash Advance”

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has received reports of what appears to be a payday loan collection scam. Numerous consumers report that they were contacted by entities claiming to collect debt owed to companies with “Cash Advance” in their names. The collection attempts often involve threats of lawsuits, asset seizure, and arrest. The consumers targeted did not actually owe the debt being collected. At least some of the consumers were targeted after they applied for loans from unlicensed online lenders.

Several consumers received threatening e-mails attempting to collect debts allegedly owed a company owned by Cash Advance Inc. The emails list numerous payday lenders and claim these lenders are owned by Cash Advance Inc. Some of these e-mails were sent by people calling themselves Jason Marroitt and David Jones.

One consumer received an e-mail from a man calling himself William C. Jones, who claimed to work at a Federal Trade Commission office. He threatened to disclose the debt to the consumer’s employer, garnish her wages, and file a law suit against her. Another consumer received a similar e-mail from a person calling himself Neal Johnson. Fake U.S. District Court arrest warrants were attached to these e-mails.

Several consumers also report receiving phone calls from entities attempting to collect debts owed to Cash Advance, Cash Advance Group, and US Cash Advance. Some of the collection calls came from people who called themselves Brian Wilson, John Murphy, Jim Spencer, and Andrew Martin. Some calls also came from a person claiming to work for Peterson Law Group and Debt Collection USA. In another case, the caller threatened to seize the consumer’s bank account and serve the consumer with legal papers at his workplace unless he paid the debt. Another consumer was threatened with arrest.

In one case, the debt collector threatened that he could have an arrest warrant issued if the consumer did not immediately pay him with a credit card. In other cases, the debt collector demanded payment using a pre-paid card.

Here is the contact information that is associated with this apparent scam:

202-241-0332
202-751-2493
206-494-9996
210-272-9477
315-688-5088
347-468-8964
402-318-7075
443-403-2041
916-350-4501
951-223-6693

acs.collection.department@outlook.com
americafincen@gmail.com
bsdebtcollectors@gmail.com
cashadvancedebtsolution@gmail.com
cashadvanceinc1@aol.com
collection.cashadvance.inc@outlook.inc
debt.collections@pcs-department.com
dorothy.barnett2@aol.com
ericharrisondebtcollection@outlook.com
ethanmccord@outlook.com
federaltradecommissionlawfirm@gmail.com
jackmorrison730@gmail.com
johnsonlaw5@aol.com
neal.advocate@aol.com
robertwilson@legislator.com
settlement@usdebtcollection.com
travis-rasmusse@aol.com
vharris00120@gmail.com
watson.cashadv.america@outlook.com

12850 W 331 Ste. 60
Alpamont, UT 84201

8901 S Wilton Place
Los Angeles, CA 90047

25954 Eden Landing Rd.
Hayward, CA 94545

There is a licensed collection agency associated with one of the above addresses. However, there is no evidence that the licensed collection agency or its employees are perpetrating the scam at issue.

Those perpetrating this scam are not licensed by DFI. They are also not licensed as collection agencies by the Washington State Department of Licensing.

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.

Report Fraud

If you are suspicious of unlicensed activity by a lender, report directly to your state regulator: 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.

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) warns consumers to verify that any lender they consider doing business with has a license to make loans in Washington State. DFI urges consumers to verify licensing status before giving lenders nonpublic personal information (like social security and checking account numbers).

A group calling itself “Lending Expo USA” appears to be operating an advanced fee loan scam. A Washington State consumer reports that Lending Expo USA offered her a $70,000 loan in exchange for an advanced fee. The consumer paid the fee and Lending Expo USA then demanded payment for additional fees. This cycle continued until the consumer paid nearly $14,000 in advance fees. In the end, the consumer did not receive the promised loan or a refund. The consumer advises that she located Lending Expo USA online. It appears that Lending Expo USA may be targeting distressed homeowners.

Lending Expo USA may be using the e-mail address lendingexpo@usa.com and may be advertising online. A phone number associated with Lending Expo USA is 323-473-3122. DFI has no other identifying information for Lending Expo USA.

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.

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.

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 the debt being collected is a 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 a report of what appears to be a payday loan debt collection scam. The consumer reported receiving a call from someone stating that they were at her house attempting to serve her with legal papers. The caller gave the consumer Klein Financial Group’s phone number and a case number.

Klein Financial Group threatened legal action against the consumer for failing to repay a payday loan. The company also had access to the consumer’s personal information. The consumer indicated that no such payday loan debt exists. The phone number associated with Klein Financial Group is 855-371-0389.

Klein Financial Group is not licensed by DFI. This company is also not registered with the Washington Secretary of State, does not have a license to do business in Washington State, and is not a licensed collection agency with the Washington State Department of Licensing.

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.

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.

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) received a complaint of what appears to be an advance fee scam.

Recently, a Washington State consumer applied for a consumer loan through Minkowski Finance Group. This entity required that the consumer pay three payments upfront prior to receiving the loan. The consumer provided payments totaling $487.00 but did not receive the promised loan. Subsequently, Minkowski Finance Group requested additional payments and the consumer refused. When the consumer requested a refund of funds provided to Minkowski Finance Group, he was continuously told that the payment would be deposited into his account, but the refund was never processed. It appears that Minkowski Finance Group is engaging in fraudulent activity or otherwise violating Washington State law.

The following contact information has been associated with this apparent scam:
Representative: Brandon Baxter
Email: contactus@minkowskigroup.com
Tel: 1-866-503-2568
Address: 98 Battery St Suite 405
San Francisco, CA

Minkowski Finance Group is not licensed with the Department of Financial Institutions to make loans in Washington State.

DFI cautions that unlicensed entities often engage in certain practices that indicate they are committing a fraud or otherwise violating Washington State law. For instance, such entities often require advance fees or personal information. Such entities often use non-business email addresses (such as @gmail.com, @yahoo.com, or other similar easily obtained email addresses) to send correspondence, threaten legal or criminal action if consumers do not reply immediately, or contain a variety of typographical and spelling errors in their correspondence to consumers.

In all circumstances, DFI also strongly suggests verifying the business licensee of entity prior to engaging in lending activity such as obtaining a loan.

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.

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: 01/08/2016
Originally Posted: 02/18/2014

Washington State consumers report that entities calling themselves Priority Payday, Priority Payday Loan, and Priority Payday Loan Servicing LLC may be operating advanced fee loan scams.

One consumer reported that she submitted her personal information on several loan matching websites and, a short time later, she received phone calls and e-mails from entities offering her advance fee loans. Among those was Priority Payday. A representative of Priority Payday named John Benson offered the consumer a $3,000 loan if the consumer paid an advance fee of $219.98. Attached to John Benson’s e-mail were phony loan documents.

A second consumer received a similar e-mail from a person calling himself Robert Clark. Robert Clark claimed to represent Priority Payday Loan and Priority Payday Loan Servicing LLC. Phony loan documents were also attached to Robert Clark’s e-mail.

These apparent scams are associated with the following contact information:

209-916-4711
585-200-5788
585-633-7621
prioritydayday@hotmail.com
robertclark2717@gmail.com
www.pdiloans.com

DFI contacted the company providing phone service to Priority Payday. Based on phone records obtained, it appears that Priority Payday is located in India.

Priority Payday, Priority Payday Loan, and Priority Payday Loan Servicing LLC are not licensed to provide loans in Washington State. They are also not licensed to otherwise do business in Washington State. DFI strongly recommends that consumers deal only with those consumer lenders that are properly licensed. Consumers can determine whether companies are properly licensed using the “Verify a License” feature on the Department’s website at www.dfi.wa.gov.

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.

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.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is warning consumers to beware of financial scams targeting older consumers who had previously been victims of fraudulent money-making schemes, such as bogus timeshare investments and in-home business opportunities.

So-called asset recovery companies are contacting these past victims, promising to get refunds for a substantial fee, failing to deliver promised services, and leaving consumers financially worse off than before.

The asset recovery company contacts the defrauded older consumer claiming that they can get their money back for an upfront fee of several hundred to thousands of dollars.

The company often claims it has unique expertise to help victims of fraud recover their funds. Once the older consumer pays the upfront fee, the company fails to perform any service that the consumer could not have done themselves.

For more information view the full alert from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Alert: Older Consumers Targeted By Fraudsters Not Once, But Twice!