I have had many clients ask me for references and I have always given them.

NTC is a large company, and they are a nationwide company, to my knowledge their clients are banks, I do not believe they would be looking to steal our clients.

Its not any different then when you apply for a job some where, you hand in a resume, and your former employer(s) are contacted for a reference.

When I am approached by a new company I also ask them for references, give me  abstractors who have done work for you in the last few years. That way I can call and find out if they pay, etc..

I think you are a little paranoid.