When you are struggling to pay off your debts and keep up with repayments, it can be one of the most stressful things when you have to deal with abusive debt collectors.
The government recognizes that accumulating debts puts a great strain on individuals and households alike. Therefore. they make sure that consumers are protected against unfair debt collection practices. As a consumer struggling with debts, it is important that you understand your rights so that you can exercise them if you fall victim to debt collector harassment.
What types of actions constitute unfair debt collection practices?
One of the most common complaints of consumers is when debt collectors harass them constantly. This might be in the form of constant telephone calls or showing up to the consumer’s home or place of work. Consumers have the right to request that harassing phone calls stop, and the debt collector has the legal duty to oblige.
It has also been known for debt collectors to take the possession of a property without the legal right to do so. This can confuse the consumer and make him or her think that the debt collector does have the legal right. This is one of the reasons why it is so important that consumers know the law.
In addition, it is illegal for a debt collector to communicate about the consumer’s debt to their employer and co-workers without his or her consent.
If you are a victim of abusive debt collection practices, it is vital that you take action in order to protect yourself from further harassment.
Source: Forbes, “How to defend against abusive debt collectors,” accessed March 16, 2018
