It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when multiple debt collectors start reaching out about the same account. In your case, you've heard from multiple lenders and a collection agency. This likely means your debt has been sold or transferred between these companies.

To protect yourself, it's important to use your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The first step is to send a debt validation letter to the collection agency since they’re the ones currently contacting you. They are required to provide proof that the debt is legitimate.

Your letter should specifically ask for:

• The exact amount of the debt
• The name of the original creditor
• Proof that the collection agency has the legal right to collect it
• Proof that the debt actually belongs to you

The CFPB (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau) has a sample debt validation letter that you can use:

Also, make sure to:

• Save copies of all emails and letters
• Track the dates and times of phone calls
• Understand your FDCPA rights to protect against unfair collection practices
• Check your credit report for errors and dispute any inaccuracies

Verifying everything is key. If you're feeling uncertain or unsure about how to proceed, getting professional advice could really help.