Verified answer

Most companies have policies in place the dictate "neutral references" for the express purpose of avoiding litigation. It is quite possible there are companies around that sufficiently unprofessional that they would "do a job" on a former employee. If you can verify your suspicion I would consult a lawyer. You might also contact the head of Human Resources at your former employer, share your suspicion and suggest you may retain a lawyer.

Unless someone can confirm your suspicion, I think you'd do better to hone interviewing skills and have your resume reviewed by a competent 3rd party.

It's possible all the past employer is saying is that you're not eligible for rehire -- which is a huge red flag to employers. We know what that means.

However, if you're upfront and honest and can give a reasonable explanation as to why your previous employer would speak badly of you (without your dissing the old employer), like personality conflict, etc., you can bypass that bad reference.

Honesty is best.

Don't put down the right contact information. It is the easiest way to for an interested employer to skip trying to get a hold of them. Just make sure the new employer can talk with someone that will give them a good reference for you.

I would not have used them. Their is nothing you can do about it just hope your other ones give you a good one.

Because you haven't found a job yet??