Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/21/2025

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I have consistently disputed the dates of this debt with The Bureaus. It is a 7 year old debt that presents as 6 years. I am applying for jobs where I need to show that I am "Financially Fit". I cannot do that with any debt so I caved in and payed it. The representative told me that all I needed to satisfy the debt was to pay was $273 of the $453 listed, and the debt would be removed from my credit. I asked at least three times if the debt would be removed once the payment was posted. She answered all thee times, "Yes, this client allows for that". Instead of doing just that, Credit Karma (Transunion), and *********** still show that I have the outstanding debt of $453, and Experian now shows that I have a BALANCE of $180. Also, reaching out to them is very hard. The Bureaus is on CT but the third party company they are using, First National Collection Bureau, is on PST as they are based in **. I have called several times before 4:00 PM and received prompts stating they it is after business hours. I live in ******* and I am on the same time as California and **. I want this debt settled and removed from my credit report.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/30/2025

  The complaint filed on 4/21/2025 was tagged as a duplicate complaint.  This is not a duplicate complaint and is separate from the August 2024 complaint. It is a complaint about a recent incident with The Bureaus and First National Collection Bureau.
  
  
  I have consistently disputed the dates of this debt with The Bureaus. It is a 7-year-old debt that presents as 6 years. I am applying for jobs where I need to show that I am "Financially Fit". I cannot do that with any debt, so on 04/11/2025, I caved in and decided to pay it. The representative told me that all I needed to pay to satisfy the debt was $273 of the $453 listed, and the debt would be removed from my credit. I asked at least three times if the debt would be removed once the payment was posted. She answered all three times, "Yes, this client allows for that". Instead of doing just that, Credit Karma (Transunion), and *********** still show that I have the outstanding debt of $453, and Experian now shows that I now have a BALANCE of $180. ($453 - $273).  It should not show any balance as I was promised that it would be removed from my credit report.
  
  
  Also, reaching out to them is very hard. The Bureaus is on CT but the third-party company they are using, First National Collection Bureau, is on PST as they are based in **. I called several times before 4:00 PM and received prompts stating they it is after business hours. I live in *******, and I am on the same time as California and **. I want this debt settled and removed from my credit report.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 05/06/2025

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number *********, original account number ****************.
  Our records indicate the account was paid on 04/11/2025. We reached out to the collection agency servicing the account and they confirmed a letter of satisfaction was emailed on 04/16/2025. A copy of that letter is attached to this response.
  It is our policy to request the credit reporting agencies remove the collection account we reported from the consumers credit report within 60 days from the date of the final payment, which in this case was paid on 04/11/2025.
  Please note we submitted the request for account deletion to all three credit reporting agencies on 05/03/2025. We do not control the timing of when the credit reporting agencies process and reflect the update on the consumers credit report.
  We are conducting an investigation into the difficulty reaching the collection agency during their business hours. We thank you for bringing this to our attention.
  Rather than submitting complaints to the Better Business Bureau, we welcome consumers to reach out to us directly with inquiries,  requests for documentation, and any other questions or concerns you would like to bring to our attention. We can be reached at ***********************************
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.
  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 05/07/2025

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and although there were some untruths in their response, I will accept this outcome and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ***** ******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:04/05/2025

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This company has been mailing be someone's personal debt information for months. I have called, returned the mail with detailed notes numerous times, yet they continue to send me someone else's mail and totally disregard my notes, calls, etc, that the persons personal financial and personal information they keep sending me is NOT someone who lives here. I am being harassed by this company and have told them numerous times the person on that mail has never lived here, doesn't live near here as I live on a huge farm in the country and know every neighbor around. The company just ignored every request and should be penalized for not only knowingly releasing confidential information on someone I do not know, but also harassing a totally unrelated person via mail for months on end when asked numerous times to stop! Very upset and plan to talk to police about the privacy issue if they do no stop sending me this random persons personal mail. Again, I have told them in writing and by phone 5-8 times in the last year. Very frustrated with the harassment, let alone the poor person whos name is on this mail, just having their finances blasted to random people.. No matter how many times i RTS the person does not live in this address, they just send it back. 

  

  Business Response

  Date: 04/07/2025

  Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention. We sincerely apologize for any confusion caused by the communication you have received from our office regarding an individual who does not reside at your address.
  
  We were able to locate the account associated with your address in our records. Upon further investigation, we found that the address in question was recently added to our system, and it was only within the past few months that our office sent a single piece of correspondence to this address. It is possible that the intended recipient of these communications may be receiving similar attempts from other companies.
  
  Please be assured that we take these matters seriously, and we have immediately taken action to resolve this issue.The address in question has now been marked as "bad" in our system,and we have also flagged the phone number provided as invalid. This will prevent any future correspondence from The Bureaus, *** being sent to your address or phone number. 
  
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies.The Bureaus, Inc. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/22/2025

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  ***** ****** ****************************************************************** ************ ************************* March 10, 2025 To:The Bureaus ************************************************** Subject: Final Demand for Deletion of Inaccurate Paid Collection Dear Representative,I formally dispute the inaccurate reporting of a paid collection account under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The account below is being misreported and must be removed immediately.Account Details:Creditor/Debt Collector: The Bureaus/Capital One Account Number: ****** Date Reported: 08/31/2018 Amount Paid: $398 Date Paid: 02/06/2025 Legal Violations Requiring Deletion:Under 15 U.S.C. 1681s-2(a)(1)(A) (****), only accurate and verifiable information may be reported. Since this account is paid, its continued reporting as derogatory is misleading.Additionally, 15 U.S.C. 1692e (FDCPA) prohibits false or deceptive representations regarding a debt. Reporting a paid account as negative misrepresents my financial obligations.Immediate Action Required:A Paid Account No Longer Reflects a Debt Its continued reporting is deceptive.Failure to Verify Under 15 U.S.C. 1681i If proper documentation (original contract, payment records, proof of debt ownership) is not provided, deletion is required.FDCPA Violations Reporting inaccurate or misleading information is ************** Notice:If this account is not removed within 30 days per 15 U.S.C. 1681i(a)(5)(A), I will file complaints with the ***** FTC, Attorney General, and BBB. Further noncompliance may result in legal action under **** 1681n, entitling me to damages and legal fees.I expect written confirmation of deletion.Sincerely,***** ****** ******************************************************************** ************ *************************

  

  Business Response

  Date: 04/01/2025

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number *********, original account number ****************.
  Our records indicate that we sent an account deletion request to the credit reporting agencies on March 15, 2025. Because you indicated the account is still appearing, we submitted another request and have attached a copy for your records. We have also attached a copy of the release letter that was mailed to the same address provided in your complaint. You can provide these documents to the credit reporting agencies as well, which may help expedite processing by the credit reporting agencies.
  The credit information furnished by the Bureaus, *** meets the requirements set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/01/2025

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ***** ******

• Initial Complaint

  Date:01/28/2025

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I paid my balance in full with The Bureaus *** on January 22, ****************************************************************************************************** full. I reached out to the Creditor and also filed this complaint. Should my credit report not be corrected I will file a formal lawsuit.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/29/2025

  Please see the attached.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 01/30/2025

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number 7059863,C&F *************** account number *********.
  

  Our records indicate that we offered to settle the account in full for $934.50 and received payment in the amount of $934.50 on 1/22/2025. We received a screenshot via email from ***** ******** showing the payment had been made.

  On 1/23/2025 we sent an email to ***** confirming the account has been satisfied. On 1/29/2025 we received an email requesting the credit report be updated within 7 days. We responded stating The Bureaus, Inc. will notify our client of the satisfaction and payment in full and that credit reporting is handled by the creditor.  We received a response to that email requesting the original contract, and we responded informing ***** that we requested the account documentation from our client, it may be faster for them to reach out to the creditor directly. Once we receive the information, if they would like us to send the account documentation via email, to please review and complete the form on our Opt-in to Email page.
  

  The Bureaus, *** has not and will not furnish information about this account to the credit reporting agencies. Questions about the account appearing on credit reports should be directed to the entity furnishing the information.
  

  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/31/2025

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****'t ********

• Initial Complaint

  Date:01/21/2025

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I am writing to dispute an entry on my credit report that pertains to debts I do not recognize. The entries under:- Comenity ************. Opened 02/14/2020 Balance: $465 appears to be inaccurate and unverifiable.Under Section 611(a) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), I am requesting that these items be investigated and removed if they cannot be verified. Specifically, Section 611(b) of the **** mandates that if a dispute is made and the information cannot be verified, the credit reporting agency must remove the disputed information.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 01/22/2025

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number *********, original account number ****************. The account was originally a Comenity ************ account opened on 08/28/2018.The last purchase on the account was in the amount of $198.68 on 08/28/2018. The last payment on the account was in the amount of $60.00 on 05/17/2019. The account charged off on 01/31/2020 in the amount of $465.30.

  Attached to this response are the supporting documents provided to us by *********************. The documents include the card member agreement, billing statements and a letter from ********************* informing ********  *****  that account number **************** was sold to ********************** **************** ********************

  
  The information we are providing meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec.809(b).We hope this answers your questions regarding this debt, however if you still require additional information, please feel free to contact us. We hope the enclosed verification documentation will bring a resolution to this dispute.

  
  The credit information furnished by the Bureaus, *** meets the requirements set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.

  
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus, Inc. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:12/19/2024

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  This company reported an inaccurate and unverifiable several years ago and has since removed it. Within the last 2 weeks they have reinserted this account on my Equifax credit report. acct #**** balance $7986. 

  

  Business Response

  Date: 01/06/2025

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number *********, original account number ****************. The account was originally a ***********, ******************** account opened on 11/21/2017.The last purchase on the account was in the amount of $30.00 on 02/25/2019. The last payment on the account was in the amount of $2,930.92 on 12/13/2018. The account charged off on 07/17/2019 in the amount of $7,986.36.
  Data furnishers are required to review and consider all relevant information relating to the dispute, including documents included with the notice of dispute, and the furnishers own information with respect to the dispute. Our records indicate multiple disputes were received on this account with investigations conducted for each. The account was temporarily deleted multiple times in the interim of fraud investigations, and upon denial of the claim, the account was re-reported as disputed.
  The credit information furnished by the Bureaus, *** meets the requirements set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  Attached to this response are the supporting documents provided to us by ***********, ********************. The documents include the card member agreement, billing statements and a letter from ***********, ********************  informing Crystal  Green  that account number **************** was sold to ******************** INVESTMENT GROUP PORTFOLIO NO 15 LLC.
  The information we are providing meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec.809(b).We hope this answers your questions regarding this debt, however if you still require additional information, please feel free to contact us. We hope the enclosed verification documentation will bring a resolution to this dispute.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:12/17/2024

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  According to 15 U.S.C 1681s-2(a)(1)(A) and (B)to report inaccurate informationPlease DELETE this information from my credit report, pursuant to section 611 of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 U.S.C. 1681i, and send the required notifications to all furnishers of this information.Section FCRA 611(a)(6)(B)(iii) and (7) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 U.S.C. 1681i, and send the required notifications to all furnishers of this information. Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 U.S.C. 1681s-2 Section 623(a)(8)(D) Section 603(p), must notify consumers in writing if they may furnish or have furnished negative information to a CRA. Section 623(a)(7).According to 15 USC 168i(15) the credit bureaus have to modify or Delete fraud Account that are not reporting accurately. According to 15 USC 1681b(1) the credit bureaus dont have no written permission. According to 15 *** 1681 have the right to privacy According to 15 *** 168s- 2 A person shall not furnish any information relating to a consumer to any consumer reporting agency if the person knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the information is inaccurate . (B) Reporting information after notice and confirmation of errors According to 15 *** 1681 I have the right to privacy According to 15 *** 1681s-2 A person shall not furnish any information relating to a consumer to any any consumer reporting agency if the person knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the information is inaccurate. (B) Reporting Information after notice and confirmation of errors A person shall not furnish information relating to a consumer to any consumer reporting agency (i) The person has been notified by the consumer, at the address specified by the person for such Notices, that specifies information inaccurate, and (ii) the information is, in, fact, inaccurate. THE BUREAUS *** / *********** NATIONAL ASSOCIAT AMOUNT:$3440 DATE:3/18/2024ACCT#******XXX

  

  Business Response

  Date: 12/19/2024

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number *********, original account number ****************. The account was originally a ***********, ******************** account opened on 04/15/2023.The last purchase on the account was in the amount of $29.95 on 08/14/2023. The last payment on the account was in the amount of $150.00 on 06/15/2023. The account charged off on 02/06/2024 in the amount of $3,440.45.
  Attached to this response are the supporting documents provided to us by ***********, ********************. The documents include the card member agreement, billing statements and a letter from ***********, ********************  informing ********  KARADANYAN  that account number **************** was sold to ******************** INVESTMENT GROUP PORTFOLIO NO 15 LLC.
  The credit information furnished by the Bureaus, *** meets the requirements set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  Thank you for attaching the identity theft report filed with the ***************************** . We will forward the information you provided to the original creditor to investigate. In the interim of their investigation, we submitted a request to delete account from your credit report with each of the credit reporting agencies.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:11/09/2024

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I am filing a complaint against The Bureaus, Inc., due to their inadequate handling of a debt acquired from ***********. Their actions may violate the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).Failure to Properly Validate Debt - Under FDCPA (15 U.S.C. 1692g), I requested debt validation, yet The Bureaus, Inc. has not provided adequate documentation proving that I am legally responsible for this debt. Without verifiable evidence, The Bureaus, Inc. cannot legally continue to report or collect on this account.Potential FCRA Violations for Inaccurate Reporting - Per FCRA (15 U.S.C. 1681s-2), The Bureaus, Inc. is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of information reported to credit bureaus. By reporting a debt they have not verified, The Bureaus, Inc. may be violating **** requirements, which mandate that furnishers uphold the integrity and accuracy of credit information.Deceptive and Unfair Collection Practices - FDCPA (15 U.S.C. 1692e, 1692f) prohibits misleading or unfair practices in debt collection. Reporting this account without validation misleads creditors and potential lenders, causing unjust harm to my credit standing. This ongoing harm, without due diligence from The Bureaus, Inc., potentially breaches federal guidelines against deceptive and unfair practices.Thank you for assisting in resolving this matter based on consumer protection laws.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 11/11/2024

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number *********, original account number ****************. The account was originally a ***********, ******************** account opened on 02/01/2023.The last purchase on the account was in the amount of $18.25 on 10/10/2023. The last payment on the account was in the amount of $320.37 on 10/19/2023 the account charged off on 05/27/2024 in the amount of $512.51.
  Our records do not indicate we ever received a request for validation. Attached to this response are the supporting documents provided to us by ***********, ********************. The documents include the card member agreement, billing statements and a letter from ***********, ********************  informing Dezman  *******  that account number **************** was sold to ********************** **************** ********************
  The information we are providing meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec.809(b).We hope this answers your questions regarding this debt, however if you still require additional information, please feel free to contact us. We hope the enclosed verification documentation will bring a resolution to this dispute.
  The credit information furnished by the Bureaus, *** meets the requirements set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  We have updated our records to request the credit reporting companies reflect the account as disputed, and have also updated our records to cease further collection attempts.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 11/22/2024

   
  Complaint: 22536366
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  Dear BBB,
  I appreciate the response from The Bureaus, Inc., but I am requesting this complaint to be reopened based on the following issues and evidence. After reviewing the response and documentation provided, I believe there are significant concerns under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), as well as additional evidence that warrants further investigation.
  1. Failure to Provide Adequate Validation of the Debt
  While The Bureaus, Inc. claims to have provided documentation that meets the standard for validation under 15 U.S.C. 1692g (FDCPA), the documentation supplied does not substantiate the alleged debt as required under federal law. Specifically:
  The cardmember agreement and billing statements do not constitute sufficient proof of ownership of the debt by The Bureaus, Inc.
  The letter from *********** stating the debt was sold to "Bureaus **************** *******************" does not establish that The Bureaus, Inc. has legal authority to collect on behalf of this entity. There is no chain of assignment or purchase agreement proving that The Bureaus, Inc. is legally authorized to collect this specific debt.
  The billing statements provided do not address discrepancies, such as possible inaccuracies in the balance, fees, or the alleged date of charge-off.
  Under FDCPA 15 U.S.C. 1692g(b), validation requires clear and unequivocal evidence that the debt is valid and that the collector has the right to collect. The Bureaus, Inc. has failed to provide this, and therefore, I dispute their right to report or collect this debt.
  2. Potential FCRA Violations Regarding Accuracy and Disputed Information
  The Bureaus, Inc. states that they meet **** requirements under 15 U.S.C. 1681, but their response fails to demonstrate that they conducted a reasonable investigation into the accuracy of the reported information. They have simply stated that they requested the credit bureaus mark the account as disputed, but under FCRA 1681s-2(a), they have an obligation to ensure the information is accurate and substantiated before reporting it to the credit bureaus.
  There is also concern that the balance reported may include unauthorized or illegitimate fees, which could constitute a violation of FCRAs mandate for accuracy in reporting.
  3. Issues with the Chain of Title and Authority to Collect
  The sale of the account from *********** to Bureaus **************** Portfolio No 15 LLC introduces potential concerns about whether the debt has been properly assigned and whether The Bureaus, Inc. has the authority to act on behalf of the owner. Without clear evidence of assignment or ownership, this collection activity may violate FDCPAs prohibition on false representation of the legal status of a debt (15 U.S.C. 1692e).
  4. Discrepancy in Handling Dispute and Collection Activity
  The Bureaus, Inc. acknowledges that they have marked the account as disputed and ceased further collection attempts. However, their continued reporting of this debt to credit bureaus perpetuates harm to my credit report, despite the lack of clear validation. This is misleading under FDCPA 1692e(8), which prohibits reporting disputed debts without properly verifying their validity.
  Requested Resolution
  Based on the above issues, I respectfully request the following actions:
  Immediate Removal of the Debt from My Credit Reports: Given the lack of clear and adequate validation, the unresolved discrepancies, and the absence of evidence of legal authority to collect, this debt should be removed from all credit reporting agencies.
  Cease Reporting and Collection Activity: As The Bureaus, Inc. has stated they will cease collection attempts, they should also cease any reporting of this debt.
  Provision of Chain of Title Documentation: If The Bureaus, Inc. continues to assert ownership or authority to collect, they must provide complete documentation of the sale, transfer, or assignment of this debt, including all agreements between *********** and Bureaus **************** Portfolio No 15 LLC, and from Bureaus **************** Portfolio No 15 LLC to The Bureaus, Inc.
  I am committed to resolving this matter fairly and expect The Bureaus, Inc. to provide the necessary proof or remove this account from my credit reports. Thank you for reopening this complaint and ensuring it is handled appropriately under federal law.
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** *******

  

  Business Response

  Date: 11/22/2024

  As previously stated, the information we are providing meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec. 809(b).
  The credit information furnished by the Bureaus, *** meets the requirements set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  We have updated our records to request the credit reporting companies reflect the account as disputed, and have also updated our records to cease further collection attempts.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/31/2025

   
  Complaint: ********
  
  I am rejecting this response because:
  Dear BBB (*******/*****************),
  I am writing to reopen or update my previous complaint (#********) against The Bureaus, Inc. for continued inaccurate reporting of an unverified debt. Here are the key points:
  Debt Removed from Experian & Equifax
  Following my disputes, both Experian and Equifax deleted this alleged debt from my credit reports. This strongly indicates insufficient or unverifiable documentation.
  Still Reporting to TransUnion (Incorrectly Listed as Open)
  Despite the above removals, The Bureaus, Inc. continues to report the account to **********, and as of 01/09/2025, it was shown as opencontrary to the other bureaus deletion.
  This is inconsistent and suggests inaccurate or misleading reporting in violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
  Lack of Proper Verification
  I have not received adequate chain-of-title documentation proving The Bureaus, Inc. owns or has the right to report this debt.
  Their prior statements or billing records do not establish the necessary proof of assignment.
  Requested Resolution
  Immediate Removal from **********: The account should be deleted from ********** just as it was from Experian and Equifax.
  Confirmation: The Bureaus, Inc. should confirm in writing that they have ceased reporting this disputed debt.
  I appreciate the BBBs assistance in ensuring The Bureaus, Inc. corrects this discrepancy. The prior deletions by ******** and Equifax show that this debt is not verifiable. Therefore, it should not remain on my ********** report in any form.
  Thank you for reviewing these updates and reopening Complaint #********.
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** *******
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** *******

  

  Business Response

  Date: 01/31/2025

  Our records indicate that we received a fraud claim on January 13, 2025 and sent a fraud affidavit to the address on file. We forwarded the information you provided to the original creditor to investigate. In the interim of their investigation, we submitted a request to delete account from your credit report with each of the credit reporting agencies on January 18, 2025. If the fraud affidavit is not returned, we will be unable to complete our investigation and must deny the claim of fraud, at which time the collection account would be re-reported to the credit reporting agencies.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability,which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus, Inc. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/31/2025

   
  Complaint: 22536366
  
  I am rejecting this response:
  
  I am responding to The Bureaus, Inc.s attempt to misrepresent my complaint. To clarify, this is a fraud dispute, not an identity theft claim. The Bureaus is mischaracterizing my dispute to avoid addressing their legally required obligations under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The *** accepts complaints regarding inaccurate credit reporting, unfair debt collection practices, and violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), all of which apply to this situation.
  
  
  
  Clarifications Regarding My Dispute
  1.I do not recognize this account and have never done business with The Bureaus, Inc.
  I never opened this account, and ******************** has failed to provide legal documentation proving their right to collect or report this debt.
  Their own records show they requested deletion of this tradeline January 18, 2025, which suggests the debt was unverified or improperly reported.
  2.This is a fraudulent and misleading credit reporting practice.
  The Bureaus deleted the tradeline from Experian and Equifax, but kept it on TransUnion.
  This violates FCRA 1681s-2(a) and UDAAP laws, as furnishers must ensure consistent and accurate reporting.
  3.Their demand for a fraud affidavit is an unnecessary stalling tactic.
  I never claimed identity theft, so their demand for an affidavit is irrelevant.
  Under FCRA 1681i(a)(5)(C), re-reporting a deleted tradeline without new substantiated proof is illegal.
  
  
  Requested Resolution:
  1.The Bureaus must immediately delete the tradeline from all credit reports, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion.
  2.The Bureaus must provide written confirmation that they will not attempt to reinsert this tradeline.
  3.The Bureaus must cease deceptive collection practices, including mischaracterizing fraud disputes as identity theft claims.
  
  
  If The Bureaus fails to take action, I will escalate this to the ***** the Nevada Attorney General, and the ************************ (***) for investigation into ****, FDCPA, and UDAAP violations.
  
  
  Sincerely,
  ****** Herbert 
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/09/2024

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I am not liable for this debt with The Bureaus, I do not have a contract with The Bureaus, they did not provide me with validation of the original contract as requested.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/09/2024

  The burden of proof falls on the collection agency, not the consumer (me). I find it highly concerning that The Bureaus is not complying with legal requests. I have also submitted dispute via third party credit karma. I request that The Bureaus, Inc. provide proof they sent validation, as is my legal right. If The Bureaus, Inc. cannot provide proof, i demand this account be removed from my credit report as is my right per the **** section 623.(a)(i). This is my last request before i file a formal complaint with the **** and the ***.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 09/11/2024

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the complaint concerning file number *********, original account number ****************. The account was originally a ***********, ******************** account opened on 10/24/2018.The last purchase on the account was in the amount of $1.44 on 05/30/2019. The last payment on the account was in the amount of $50.00 on 10/04/2019 the account charged off on 01/31/2020 in the amount of $831.67.
  Our records do not indicate we ever received a request for an original contract.
  The federal debt collection rule requires debt collectors provide consumers with certain information about their debt, known as validation information. An original contract is not required validation information.
  Attached to this response are the supporting documents provided to us by ***********, ********************. The documents include the card member agreement, billing statements and a letter from ***********, ********************  informing *******  ******  that account number **************** was sold to ******************** INVESTMENT GROUP PORTFOLIO **********
  The information we are providing meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec.809(b). We hope this answers your questions regarding this debt, however if you still require additional information, please feel free to contact us. We hope the enclosed verification documentation will bring a resolution to this dispute.
  Our investigation found the information you disputed to be accurate. We have updated our records to reflect the account is disputed and to notify the credit reporting agencies of the dispute. The credit information furnished by the Bureaus, *** meets the requirements set by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,***. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/16/2024

   
  Complaint: 22260450
  
  I am writing in response to your letter regarding the alleged debt on the above-referenced account. I appreciate your efforts to provide documentation, but I still have concerns about how this debt was verified.  
  

  Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (*****), I am requesting further clarification and proof of how you verified the debt. Specifically, I would like to see a detailed breakdown of the following:  
  

  Verification Process: Please provide a comprehensive explanation of the methods used to verify this debt, including who verified it and how the information was obtained from the original creditor, ***********, *********************  
  Itemized Validation Information: While I understand you have provided some documents, I am requesting a more detailed, itemized account history showing how the current balance was calculated, including any interest, fees, or other charges added after the account was charged off.  
  

  Proof of Assignment or Ownership: As part of the validation process, I am requesting documentation that explicitly shows how this debt was transferred or sold to Bureaus **************** Portfolio No. ********************************** assignment of rights.  
  

  Original Contract: While you stated that an original contract is not required for validation, I respectfully request a copy of the original signed agreement between myself and *********** as further verification of this account.  
  

  I am not disputing that debts must be paid, but I am exercising my right under the ***** to ensure the information you have provided is accurate and complete. Until this request is fulfilled, I request that you refrain from any further collection activities, including reporting this debt to credit bureaus, as is my right under the *****.      

  Thank you for your attention to this matter.

  ******* ******

   

  

  Business Response

  Date: 09/17/2024

  This dispute has been determined to be duplicative. It is substantially the same as a dispute previously submitted by the consumer for which we already satisfied validation requirements and does not include and material information to support a new dispute. The information we are providing meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec.809(b). Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus,Inc. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:08/20/2024

  Type:Billing Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Despite my efforts to rectify this matter concerning account number ending in 1868, ********************** Investment Group Portfolio, to date, failed to prove that this account is mine. You have failed to provide me with a copy of any viable evidence bearing my wet ink signature, showing the account is being reported accurately. I have documented my correspondence with you, and I have filed complaints with the appropriate authorities since you have not removed this item from my credit report.This will serve as your legal notice pursuant to the provisions of federal law, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (*****), to cease all communication with me in regard to the debt referenced above, including the frivolous reporting of this account to any credit reporting agency. IF you fail to heed this notice and if I find that this entry on my credit report later interferes with my ability to obtain credit with favorable terms, I will bring suit against your company as well as the original creditor for all applicable damages, as well as for statutory penalties provided under the ***** and FCRA.You are also notified that should any adverse information continue to be placed on my credit reports as a result of this notice, appropriate actions will be taken. Please give this very important matter the attention it deserves.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/05/2024

  See attachment

  

  Business Response

  Date: 09/06/2024

  The Bureaus,*** is a debt collector. Please accept this as our response to the consumer complaint filed by *************************** regarding account number *********, original account number *********. The account was originally an Upgrade,***. on behalf of Blue Ridge Bank account opened on 04/01/2022 in the amount of $6,000.00. The last payment on the account was in the amount of $187.72 on 03/01/2023.The account charged off on 07/29/2023 in the amount of $6,052.18. Our investigation found the information disputed to be accurate.
  A wet ink signature made with a pen or pencil on a physical document, such as a paper contract or form is often used to differentiate pen and paper signatures from electronic signatures, or e-signatures. As previously stated, this account was opened on the internet; therefore an E-signature was captured. A copy of the agreements and notices provided to the to us by Upgrade, *** on behalf of Blue Ridge Bank and sent to *************************** in paper and electronic formats are attached to this response.
  The information provided to *************************** multiple times meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec.809(b).
  Upon notice of the dispute in February 2024, The Bureaus, *** updated our records and subsequently notified the credit reporting companies that the account is disputed, as is required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C.1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy,fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores,and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  Upon receipt of the Missouri Attorney General  complaint in August 2024, we updated our records to restrict communication attempts with ***************************.
  This dispute has been determined to be duplicative. It is substantially the same as a dispute previously submitted by the consumer for which we already satisfied validation requirements and does not include and material information to support the dispute.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability,which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus, Inc. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/23/2024

  See attachment

  

  Business Response

  Date: 09/23/2024

  The Bureaus, *** is a debt collector licensed as such in all required jurisdictions. This dispute has been determined to be duplicative. It is substantially the same as the disputes previously submitted by the consumer for which we already satisfied validation requirements and does not include any material information to support the dispute.
  As previously stated, a wet ink signature made with a pen or pencil on a physical document, such as a paper contract or form is often used to differentiate pen and paper signatures from electronic signatures, or e-signatures. This account was opened on the internet; therefore an E-signature was captured. A copy of the E-Sign consent was included with the documentation previously provided. All account documentation was attached to the previous response in addition to provided in response to the same dispute also received via the Better Business Bureau.
  The documents already provided include the Bill of Sale, Credit Profile Authorization Agreement, Credit Score Notice, ACH Authorization Agreement, Borrower Agreement, ESIGN Act Consent Agreement, Truth in Lending Disclosure Statement, Loan Agreement, Original Creditor Transaction History, Terms Of Use Agreement, and Privacy Notice Agreement.
  The information provided to ******* ****** meets the requirements based on the standard set by the 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th and 10th Circuit Court cases which set the standard for debt validation under 15 USC 1692g Sec. 809(b).
  Upon notice of the dispute, The Bureaus, *** updated our records and subsequently notified the credit reporting companies that the account is disputed, as is required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681, *********************** legislation enacted to promote the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of consumer information contained in the files of consumer reporting agencies. For more information about Credit Reports, Scores, and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 15 U.S.C. 1681, you can visit *************************************************************************.
  Nothing in this response may be construed as an admission of wrongdoing or liability, which The Bureaus, Inc. Expressly denies. The Bureaus, Inc. also expressly reserves all of its rights and defense.
  Please let us know if you need any additional information.
  Thank you for your time,
  ***** *****
  Compliance Manager