Debt collectors are very famous for crossing the lines and violating the federal laws in their attempts to obtain payment. They will use their most scary and intimidating tactics to recover payments from you. In most of the cases, people are not aware of the legal restrictions applicable during collections and that’s why they end up being harassed by the creditors and the collection agencies.

Following are the possible violations of the FDCPA:

• When a collection agency is contacting a third party, they have to identify themselves with their business. If they don’t tell you the name of their company for whom they are doing the collections, it is a violation of the law. They are only required the collect the contact information of the person on whom they are doing the collections.

• Debt collectors cannot discuss about your debts with the third parties. If they try to give your personal information or disclose your debt details, it is a violation of the law.

• Collection agencies are allowed to contact the third party once only, unless they are requested to be called again.

• Collection agencies cannot contact you after you are being represented by an attorney. If they are try to call you after receiving the power of attorney from your lawyer, it is a violation of the FDCPA.

• Collection agencies are allowed to call between 8 am and 9 pm, your time. They are not allowed to contact your place of work or home after you have sent the partial cease and desist letter and requested communication in writing only.

Following cases are considered to be harassment or abuse:

• Debt collectors harass, oppress, or abuse any person
• Threat of Force or criminal means to harm you or your property
• Using profane language
• Calling repeatedly
• Calling you without disclosing identity (“I am a debt collector attempting to collect a debt”)
• Most of the collection agencies violating the laws are famous for presenting false and misleading information to recover the payments from the consumers. They will attempt to collect more than what is owed. In certain cases, they will use scary and intimidating tactics like they are calling from the federal bureau or the attorney’s place and if the payment is not done, they will take you to the jail, or garnish wages. Don’t be afraid if they are threatening to sue you. They are trying to blow hot air.