<prompt> Human: I received a debt collection letter from an attorneys office this afternoon. The amount is something like 9k principle and 7k interest. I follow my credit report weekly and do not see anything remotely close to this amount on my report. I allegedly had credit card debt on two cards that was eventually removed from my report last year, and I believe is past the statute of limitations in the state.What should I dosay? I am going to call tomorrow to figure out what this is from, but Im not sure how to avoid validating any alleged old debt. The letter specifies that I have 30 days to dispute or else the debt will be assumed as valid.  <response>: Dont call.Go to creditboards.com, in the Newbies section, and read up on Debt Validation letters.Write one, do NOT sign it or give them ANY information they do not already have. Send it certified mail, return-receipt-requested.Never deal with collectors on the phone. 100 of collectors will lie 100 of the time. 