A debt collection scam campaign is targeting consumers with fraudulent messages claiming to be from "Harris & Harris Debt Collector" regarding Comcast cable bills. The operation centers around phone number 844-908-0248 and uses two connected domains: hhcollect.co and pay-hh.com. The hhcollect.co domain was recently registered on January 9, 2024 through GoDaddy.com, LLC, indicating this is a newly established fraudulent operation.
The scammers employ a multi-channel approach, sending both SMS text messages and using web-based collection portals to appear legitimate. Community reports reveal the campaign uses multiple messaging tactics, including settlement offers claiming consumers can "pay only 70% of your balance" and welcome messages stating recipients will receive ongoing communications from the fake debt collector. The scammers reference specific companies like Comcast to add credibility to their scheme. One message directs victims to visit pay-hh.com with a specific tracking link, while another provides terms and conditions at hhcollect.co, demonstrating how both domains work together in the fraud operation.
Analysis of cross-entity relationships shows strong connections between the phone number and both domains, with pay-hh.com having a confidence score of 0.59 for being reported together with 844-908-0248, while hhcollect.co shows a lower but notable confidence of 0.35. Despite these connections and community reports documenting the fraudulent activity, the phone number has generated zero official FTC complaints, suggesting either underreporting by victims or the campaign's recent launch coinciding with the January 2024 domain registration.
To protect against this and similar debt collection scams, consumers should verify any debt collection claims by contacting the original creditor directly using official contact information from billing statements or company websites. Legitimate debt collectors are required by law to provide written validation notices within five days of initial contact. If contacted by phone, hang up immediately and do not provide personal or financial information. Never click links in suspicious text messages or emails. Consumers can verify if a phone number or domain is associated with scams by checking the FTC's database or consumer protection websites. Report suspected fraud to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and unwanted calls or texts to the FCC.
This Harris & Harris debt collection campaign represents a moderate threat level due to its sophisticated use of multiple domains and professional-appearing messaging, despite the low formal complaint volume. The recent domain registration and connected infrastructure suggest an active, evolving operation. Consumers should remain vigilant for similar messages and remember that legitimate debt collectors will provide proper written documentation and verification upon request. Immediate reporting of any contact from these entities will help authorities track and shut down this fraudulent operation.