<prompt> Human: A debt collector contacted me about a cable bill debt from 9 years ago. I asked for proof, and they provided the address where I lived at the time of the collection.I think I should pay this in full. Its not a large sum. If I do this, how do I protect my credit rating? Update: I contacted the attorney. The debt is small, between 100 and 200. The attorney said its likely a scam, given the small amount and elapsed time. The attorney did state that if its not a scam, it likely constitutes a written agreement, which holds a 10-year statute. Attorney said to have them call her if they attempt to contact me again or if I see a negative activity on my credit report. Update2: A couple of resources Ive found about the FCRA Federal Statute of Limitations regarding Reporting Delinquent accounts 7.5 years:  <response>: Way past the reporting limit and statute of limitations. Tell the CA to pound sand. 