Credit Security Limited Debt Collection Agency in the UK – Do You Have to Pay in 2025?

If you’ve been contacted by Credit Security Limited about an unpaid debt, you’re probably wondering if you really have to pay and what your options are. This article explains who Credit Security Limited are, how their debt collection process works, and what your rights are when dealing with them in 2025. 

Keep reading to learn how to respond, protect yourself, and make informed decisions about any debt claims. 

Who Are Credit Security Limited Debt Collection Agency in the UK?

Credit Security Limited is a debt collection agency based in the United Kingdom. The company was established in 1966 and has operated for decades as a third-party collections service. They work on behalf of banks, utility companies, telecom providers, and other businesses to recover unpaid debts from individuals and companies.

They are not the original lender. Instead, they are hired by the original creditor to recover money that has not been paid. In some cases, the debt may have been sold to them, while in others, they act as an agent to collect the money.

Services Offered

Credit Security Limited provides several services for creditors, including:

• Debt Collection: Contacting individuals and businesses to collect overdue payments. 
• Pre-Legal Recovery: Attempting to collect payment before the debt goes to court. 
• Tracing Services: Locating individuals who have moved or changed contact details. 
• Debt Recovery Advice: Helping clients understand collection processes and options. 

They may contact you by phone, letter, email, or text message. In many cases, they send formal letters asking you to repay the outstanding amount or set up a payment plan.

Memberships and Affiliations: Is Credit Security Limited Debt Collection Agency Legitimate?

Yes, Credit Security Limited is a legitimate debt collection agency. They are:

• Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – This means they must follow specific rules when dealing with consumers. 
• Members of the Credit Services Association (CSA) – The main trade body for debt collection agencies in the UK. 
• Registered with Companies House – Company number: 00922180. 
• Registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – This confirms they handle personal data in line with UK law. 

You can find their company details and regulatory listings publicly available on UK government and FCA websites.

Compliance and Regulatory Standards

Debt collection agencies in the UK are required to follow strict guidelines. Credit Security Limited must follow:

• FCA Rules – These protect consumers from unfair treatment, aggressive contact, and misleading information. 
• Consumer Credit Act 1974 – This law outlines how debts should be managed and what rights the consumer has. 
• The Data Protection Act (2018): Under the Data Protection Act, Credit Security Limited Debt Collection ensures that all personal data collected is securely handled and only used for lawful purposes related to debt recovery. 
• The Protection from Harassment Act (1997): The agency is prohibited from engaging in harassment, intimidation, or threatening behaviour. They are required to pursue collections in a professional manner that does not cause undue stress or hardship for the debtor.  

If they break these rules, you have the right to make a complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service or the FCA.

Why Credit Security Limited Debt Recoveries Might Be Contacting You?

If you’ve received a letter, phone call, or message from Credit Security Limited, it’s likely because they believe you owe money to a business or service provider. They don’t contact people randomly. Their involvement usually begins when a company passes or sells a debt to them for collection.

Before you respond, it’s important to understand why they are reaching out.

Common Reasons for Contact

Credit Security Limited may contact you for the following reasons:

• Unpaid Bills: You may have missed payments on credit cards, loans, or utilities like gas, electricity, or broadband services. 
• Debt Transferred from Original Creditor: The company you originally owed money to may have hired Credit Security Limited to collect the balance on their behalf. 
• Sold Debt: In some cases, the original creditor no longer owns the debt. Credit Security Limited may have bought it and now has the right to collect. 
• Old Debts Resurfacing: Sometimes, debts you forgot about or thought were settled can be sold to collectors years later, as long as they are within the legal time limit. 
• Tracing Activity: If you’ve changed your address or contact number, they may be trying to confirm your current location before continuing with collection steps. 
• Missed Communication: You may not have responded to previous letters from the original creditor, prompting them to involve a debt collector. 

They may ask for full payment or offer you a chance to set up a repayment plan. However, they must provide details of the debt if you request proof.

Struggling with debt? Worry not. Reach out to us today and we will guide you through the best course of action:

Debt Recovery Process: How Does Credit Security Limited Debt  Recoveries Do Debt Collection?

When Credit Security Limited gets involved in collecting a debt, they follow a set process. Their aim is to recover the money owed on behalf of their clients or themselves if the debt was purchased. The process is structured but may vary slightly depending on the type of debt and how the original lender handled it.

How Debts Are Transferred to Credit Security Limited Debt Recoveries

There are two main ways that Credit Security Limited becomes involved with your debt:

• Debt is Assigned to Them: The original lender keeps ownership of the debt but hires Credit Security Limited to collect it. You still technically owe the original company, but Credit Security is handling communication and payment collection. 
• Debt is Sold to Them: The original lender sells the debt to Credit Security Limited, often for less than the full amount. From this point forward, you owe the money directly to Credit Security Limited. 

In both cases, they must inform you who they are collecting on behalf of, how much is owed, and where the debt came from.

Steps in the Debt Recovery Process Conducted by Credit Security Limited Debt Recoveries

Here is a breakdown of the usual steps followed by Credit Security Limited:

1. Initial Contact: 

• You’ll receive a letter, phone call, or message explaining that they are contacting you about a debt. 
• This notice will include the creditor’s name, the amount owed, and how to pay. 

2. Request for Payment: 

• You may be asked to pay in full, or they may offer you the chance to discuss repayment options. 

3. Follow-Up Contact: 

• If there’s no response, they may follow up multiple times through phone calls, letters, or emails. 

4. Negotiation: 

• In some cases, they may accept a reduced settlement or help set up a monthly payment plan. 

5. Warning of Further Action: 

• If you ignore all contact, they may warn about possible legal action or transfer of the debt to a solicitor for further recovery steps. 

6. Legal Action (if applicable): 

• They can start court proceedings for a County Court Judgment (CCJ), but only after giving you enough notice. 
• Not all debts go to court, but they must follow legal steps if they choose to proceed. 

7. Closure or Continued Collection: 

• If the debt is paid or settled, they’ll mark the account as closed. 
• If not, collection efforts may continue or be escalated. 

Throughout this process, you have the right to ask for proof of the debt and dispute it if something seems incorrect. 

How to Respond to Shakespeare Martineau Debt Collection Contact Attempts

Receiving a letter, phone call, or message from Credit Security Limited can be stressful, especially if you weren’t expecting it. But it’s important not to ignore it. Whether you believe the debt is correct or think there’s a mistake, the way you respond matters. Acting quickly and carefully can protect your rights and reduce the risk of legal action, such as a County Court Judgment (CCJ).

Here’s what you should do if Credit Security Limited contacts you:

1. Choose How You Want to Communicate

You have the right to choose how you want to be contacted. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking on the phone, you can ask them to contact you in writing only. It can be done via a letter or email.

Communicating in writing helps you:

• Keep a clear record of all messages and agreements. 
• Avoid pressure or confusion during phone calls. 
• Stay in control of what is said and agreed. 

To do this, send a written request and keep a copy for your records. It’s your legal right to request communication in writing only.

2. Ask Credit Security Limited to Prove the Debt

You don’t have to pay anything until they provide proof of the debt. You can ask them to show:

• That the debt exists. 
• That you are the person who owes it. 
• That the amount they are asking for is accurate. 

You can send them a written request (often called a “Prove the Debt” letter) asking for:

• A full breakdown of the total amount owed. 
• A copy of the original credit agreement or contract. 
• Evidence showing that they have the legal right to collect the debt. 

Asking for proof does not mean you accept the debt. It simply means you are asking for the correct documents before making any decision.

3. What If They Can’t Provide Proof?

If Credit Security Limited cannot give valid proof:

• You are not required to pay the debt. 
• You can dispute the claim in writing. 
• They must stop collection efforts until they provide the correct information. 

If they continue to contact you without proper documentation, you can:

• Make a complaint to Credit Security Limited directly. 
• Escalate your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), since they are regulated. 

Tip: Always keep copies of everything you send or receive. This can help if the issue reaches court or a formal complaint is made.

4. If Credit Security Limited Can Prove the Debt

If they send valid proof and the debt is correct:

• Only agree to pay if you are sure the details are accurate. 
• If you can’t pay the full amount, ask about setting up a payment plan. 
• Review all added charges to make sure they are fair and legal. 

If you’re unsure about what to do next, consider getting help from a free debt advice service like:

• StepChange 
• National Debtline 
• Citizens Advice 

Staying calm and informed will help you handle the situation properly, whether you need to dispute the debt or arrange to pay it.

Paying Credit Security Limited: What You Need to Know

Deciding whether to pay a debt collected by Credit Security Limited depends on a few important points. The first step is to check if the debt is actually yours and whether it’s still enforceable under UK law.

Here’s how to figure out your next steps:

1. Check If the Debt Is Valid

Before making any payments, take time to confirm the following:

• Is the debt really yours? Sometimes debts are wrongly linked to the wrong person due to errors in records or misidentification. 
• Is the amount correct? Compare what Credit Security Limited is asking for with your own records, such as old bills or account statements. 
• Have they sent proper proof? You have the right to ask for documents that show where the debt came from, how much is owed, and that you are the person responsible. 
• Is the debt too old? In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, most debts become unenforceable after six years if no payment or written contact has been made. In Scotland, the limit is five years. 

If the debt is outside this time limit or they can’t prove it, you can challenge it in writing. In such cases, you are not legally required to pay.

What Is a Statute-Barred Debt?

A debt is usually statute-barred when it has passed the legal time limit for enforcement. This means:

• No payment has been made during the time limit. 
• You haven’t written to acknowledge the debt during that period. 
• No County Court Judgment (CCJ) has been issued.

Once these conditions are met, the creditor can no longer take legal action to recover the debt.

Debts That May Not Be Statute-Barred

Not all debts are covered by limitation rules. Some examples include:

• Joint debts: If another person connected to the debt makes a payment or writes to the collector, it could reset the time limit. 
• Debts with a CCJ: If a CCJ was already issued by the court, the limitation period does not apply. The debt remains enforceable for a longer time. 

If you think the debt might be statute-barred, ask for written proof before you agree to anything.

Risks of Using the Statute-Barred Rule

Even if a debt is statute-barred, keep the following in mind:

• Credit report impact: The debt may still appear on your credit file for six years. 
• Resetting the clock: If you make a payment or admit the debt, the time limit could restart. 
• Continued contact: Credit Security Limited might still send letters, though they cannot begin court action without valid legal grounds. 
• Disagreements: You might have to provide proof that the debt is too old if there is a dispute. 
• Future lending: Some lenders may see unpaid old debts as a risk when you apply for credit. 

If you’re unsure, speak with a free debt adviser before taking action.

2. Consider Your Payment Options

If the debt is confirmed and still enforceable, you have a few choices:

• Pay the full amount: This closes the matter and clears your account. 
• Ask for a payment plan: You may be able to spread payments over time based on your current financial situation. 
• Seek professional help: Services like StepChange, National Debtline, or Citizens Advice offer free support and can help you decide the best way to move forward. 

3. What Happens If You Ignore Credit Security Limited?

Ignoring letters or calls from Credit Security Limited can lead to more serious consequences:

a. Credit file damage

Unpaid debts may be reported to credit reference agencies, making it harder to get loans, credit cards, or mortgages.

b. County Court Judgment (CCJ)

If you don’t respond to legal warnings, they could take court action and get a CCJ against you. This stays on your credit record for six years.

c. Enforcement action

If a CCJ is issued and remains unpaid, further steps might include:

• Attachment of earnings – Deductions made from your wages. 
• Charging order – A legal claim placed against your property. 
• Bailiff visits – Enforcement officers may visit your home to collect the debt. 

Dealing with the debt early helps avoid these situations. It also gives you more time to explore your options and work out a realistic solution.

By staying calm and acting on the facts, you can decide whether to dispute the debt, arrange payments, or get help from a trusted adviser. The key is not to delay.

What Should I Do If My Debts Are Huge And I Cannot Afford To Settle Them?

Sometimes, it may be difficult to agree on a payment plan with your creditor or debt collection agency, particularly if the payments are financially overwhelming.

In such cases, you might want to explore potential debt solutions in the UK. There are several options available in the UK, each with its own eligibility criteria. Choosing the right option can help resolve your debt issues, but the wrong one may make your financial situation worse.

However, it is essential to seek professional advice before committing to any debt solution. A debt advisor can help you assess your situation and guide you in selecting the most appropriate option.

Some of The Key Debt Solutions Available in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales:

• Debt Management Plan (DMP): An informal arrangement where you make monthly payments toward your debts. There is no legal commitment, but your creditors may agree to reduce interest or freeze fees.
• Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA): A formal agreement where you make regular payments to creditors over 5 or 6 years. The remaining debt may be written off, but this solution has strict criteria.
• Debt Relief Order (DRO): Designed for individuals in severe financial distress, this option freezes interest and allows a year of no payments, potentially leading to debt resolution.
• Bankruptcy:  A formal legal process that can clear most debts if you are unable to repay them. Bankruptcy provides a financial reset, but it also has serious long-term consequences, including restrictions on your financial affairs and potential asset loss. 

Debt Solutions Available in Scotland

1. Protected Trust Deed: A formal agreement to repay part of what you owe over four years. The remaining debt may be written off afterward. It is legally binding and affects your credit rating. 
2. Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS): A government-backed scheme allowing you to repay your debts through a Debt Payment Programme (DPP) based on what you can afford. Interest and charges could be frozen, and creditors can’t take legal action. 
3. Sequestration (Scottish Bankruptcy): A formal insolvency process where most debts may be written off, but assets may be sold to repay creditors. It offers a fresh start but comes with serious consequences. 
4. Minimal Asset Process (MAP): A simplified form of bankruptcy designed for individuals with low income and few assets. It allows eligible debts to be written off after six months, provided the individual fully cooperates with the process. However, in practice, the process may take longer depending on the complexity of the case. MAP also offers lower fees and reduced administrative burden compared to full bankruptcy.

Caution: These debt solutions have both advantages and drawbacks, so it’s important to carefully weigh your options before making a decision.

Unsure which option to move forward with? Reach out to us today and we will guide you through the best course of action:

Get Professional Advice

If you’re unsure which solution is right for you, consider speaking with a professional debt advisor. There are free, independent services available that can help guide you through your options. These services will assess your financial situation and help you find a solution tailored to your needs.

Some reliable organisations offering free advice include:

• StepChange
• National Debtline
• Citizens Advice
• Debt Advice Foundation

It’s important to make an informed decision and seek expert advice before proceeding with any debt solution.

What Guidelines Should Credit Security Limited Follow When Collecting Debt?

As a UK-registered and FCA-regulated debt collection agency, Credit Security Limited must follow strict rules when contacting people about unpaid debts. These rules are in place to ensure that individuals are treated fairly, that personal information is protected, and that collection practices remain legal and professional.

Here are the main guidelines Credit Security Limited must follow:

1. Follow FCA and Legal Regulations

Credit Security Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means they are expected to comply with rules that focus on fair treatment of consumers. These include:

• FCA Principles for Businesses – They must act honestly, fairly, and in the best interest of customers. 
• Consumer Credit Act 1974 – Outlines the legal process for collecting debts and the rights of individuals. 
• Pre-Action Protocol for Debt Claims (if legal action is planned) – They must give you clear information, time to respond, and an opportunity to seek advice before starting court action. 
• Data Protection Laws (GDPR) – They are required to protect your personal data and use it only for legal reasons related to the debt. 

If these standards are not followed, you may have grounds for a complaint.

2. No Harassment or Pressure Tactics

Credit Security Limited must not use any form of harassment or intimidation. Their contact with you must follow these basic rules:

• No excessive or repeated calls, letters, or emails. 
• No threats or pressure to pay more than you can afford. 
• No misleading language that suggests legal action has already started (unless it actually has). 
• All communication must stay professional, respectful, and free of bullying behaviour. 

3. Provide Clear and Correct Information

You have the right to know exactly why you’re being contacted. Credit Security Limited must:

• Name the original creditor or company you owe. 
• Give you the total amount owed, and a breakdown if you ask for it. 
• Provide copies of any contracts or agreements related to the debt (upon request). 
• Explain your rights, including how to dispute the debt or request proof. 

They cannot demand payment without giving you a clear reason and supporting evidence, if asked.

4. Respect Financial Difficulties

If you’re struggling financially, they are expected to act reasonably. This means they should:

• Allow you time to get debt advice. 
• Offer repayment options that match your financial situation. 
• Avoid insisting on payments that are not affordable. 
• Consider any medical or personal circumstances you explain. 

Credit Security Limited should not ignore or dismiss claims of financial hardship.

5. Fair and Private Communication

Their communication with you must respect your privacy and preferences. They should:

• Contact you through the method you prefer (letter, email, etc.). 
• Avoid calling at unreasonable hours (usually before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.). 
• Never speak to anyone else about your debt without your permission. 
• Stop contacting you if you ask for all communication to be in writing. 

If they fail to follow these rules, you have the right to make a formal complaint. 

How to Make a Complaint About Credit Security Limited

If you believe Credit Security Limited has treated you unfairly or broken any rules, you can take the following steps:

1. Contact Credit Security Limited First

Start by getting in touch with them directly. You can find their contact details in their letter or on their official website. Explain your concern and ask for a response in writing.

2. Send a Formal Complaint

If the problem isn’t resolved, write a formal complaint. Include:

• Your name and reference number. 
• A clear explanation of what happened. 
• Copies of any letters, emails, or call notes. 
• The reason you believe their actions were wrong or unfair. 

Keep a copy of the complaint for your records.

3. Ask for an Internal Review

If you don’t receive a helpful response, ask for your complaint to be reviewed by a manager or someone senior within the company.

4. Escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service

If the complaint is still unresolved after eight weeks, or if you’re unhappy with the outcome, you can take the issue to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). They handle complaints against FCA-regulated firms.

5. Report to the FCA or ICO (if needed)

If you think they’ve seriously broken data protection or financial rules, you can report them to:

• The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – for breaches of financial regulations. 
• The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – for improper handling of your personal data. 

Important Tip

Keep detailed records of every interaction, including:

• Letters or emails you receive or send. 
• Dates and times of phone calls. 
• Names of people you speak with. 
• Any reference numbers or documents shared. 

Having these details can help if you need to escalate the matter further or defend yourself in the future.

Credit Security Limited Debt Recoveries Contact Details

If you need to contact Credit Security Limited Debt Recoveries regarding debt collection or any other inquiries, you can reach them through the following channels:  

Phone:	01296 642180 (Monday to Friday: 9am to 7pm, Saturday: 9am to 1pm, Sundays: Closed)
Address:	Credit Security Limited, The Old Court House, High Street, Whitchurch, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 4JS
Website:	https://www.creditsecurity.co.uk/

Final Thoughts

Dealing with Credit Security Limited can be stressful, especially if the contact comes unexpectedly. But the most important step is not to ignore it. Whether you think the debt is accurate or not, you have rights. You can request proof of the debt, check if it’s enforceable, and decide your next steps based on facts.

Credit Security Limited is a legitimate UK debt collection agency regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), but that does not mean every claim they make is always correct. Always take time to confirm the debt details and your legal position before making any payments.

If the debt is valid and affordable, paying or setting up a plan could help you avoid legal action. If the debt is too old or incorrect, you may be able to challenge it. For those facing serious financial problems, various debt solutions are available, but it’s important to seek advice before committing to one.

The key is to stay calm, act early, and make informed decisions. Use free debt advice services if you need help, and never hesitate to ask Credit Security Limited for evidence before responding to their requests. 

Key Takeaways

• Credit Security Limited is Legitimate: They are a UK-based debt collection agency regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and members of the Credit Services Association (CSA). 
• They Are Not the Original Lender: Credit Security Limited either works on behalf of creditors or purchases debt, meaning they are collecting money owed to other companies. 
• You Have the Right to Request Proof: Before making any payment, you can ask for written proof of the debt, including the original agreement and a full breakdown. 
• Debts May Be Too Old to Enforce: In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, most unsecured debts become unenforceable after six years of no payment or written contact (five years in Scotland). 
• Ignoring Contact Can Lead to Legal Action: If you ignore letters or calls, it could result in a County Court Judgment (CCJ) or further enforcement, such as wage deductions or property claims. 
• You Can Choose How They Contact You: You can legally ask Credit Security Limited to only communicate in writing, giving you control over the process and a written record of interactions.  
• They Must Follow Fair Collection Practices: They are not allowed to harass, mislead, or pressure you into payments, especially if you are in financial difficulty. 
• Debt Advice Services Are Available: Free help is available from trusted organisations like StepChange, National Debtline, and Citizens Advice to guide you through your options. 
• Debt Solutions Are an Option: If you can’t repay what you owe, there are formal debt solutions like IVAs, DROs, bankruptcy, and others, depending on where you live in the UK. 
• Complaints Can Be Filed If Needed: If Credit Security Limited acts unfairly or breaches rules, you can file complaints with them directly, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service, or report to the FCA or ICO. 

FAQs

Can a debt collection agency like Credit Security Limited continue to contact me if I avoid them?

Avoiding debt collectors will not stop communications. It is better to engage with them, verify the debt, and discuss repayment solutions to avoid escalation and further issues.

What happens if my debt is sold to a debt purchase company?

You will receive a notice of assignment informing you that your debt now belongs to a debt purchase company. They or an appointed debt collection agency will then contact you to arrange repayment.