Unsigned letter received approximately 5 January 2011 with the following written message:

"You need to call us at 866-808-0914.  Enter code "411-XXXX".  24 hour recorded message.  No operator will answer."

The Facts and Some Advice:

1.  It is a bill collector.

2.  If you are curious and want to call and hear the message, ONLY USE A PAY PHONE - NEVER USE YOUR OWN PHONE, A FRIEND'S PHONE, OR THE PHONE AT YOUR PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT!!

3.  NEVER, NEVER enter the code number!!!!!

4.  If you pay for or have your own Caller ID Blocker, THEY NEVER WORK FOR 800 or 900 numbers!!!  If you call, they know that someone to whom they sent a letter fell for the bait.  Their computers can see and record your phone number when you call in .. and then do a reverse lookup or use other databases to try to identify the owner of your phone's number and determine the area where you are calling from.  Once they have both your number and your name, they can run that name through their data base to see if they can identify the debtor.  If they can't identify the caller, at a later time they might also call your number and simply ask your name or use some other guise to have you reveal your name and location.

5.  If you enter the code they have sent to you, that will specifically identify you and the amount of money you owe ... and they will now have your phone number to call you later for collection purposes.

6.  If you call and enter the wrong code number, it will either mis-identify you and link you to someone else's account or, if it is not a valid account number, they will at least have your phone number to do a reverse look-up (see paragraph "4" above).

7.  Note:  If a bill/debt collector gets your telephone number, tell them not to call you. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practice Act, debt collectors cannot continue to call you after you tell them not too. You can tell the collector not to call you orally, but a better practice is to send them a certified letter (keep a copy of the letter and they certified receipt).  If possible, do not put your mailing and mailing and residential address on the letter or envelope.  If they continue to call it is considered harassment and it is against the law!  They may have to pay you for each occurrence!  Know your rights and what action to take.  See this link: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/credit/cre18.shtm

It's a debt collector.  Call the number and enter your code ... and you will automatically give them your telephone number.  Called ID protection will not stop your telephone number from going out to 800 or 900 numbers.

Is this a joke or scam??

i got one too. very strange. called and there was music like i was on hold then when it answered there was complete silence. very strange.

I got a letter on blue paper handwritten with pen with my name and address telling me to call this number and enter the code. when i called sum music played then nothing.....weird.