If you are having a hard time due to unpaid bills or credit card debt, you probably have high levels of stress and a lot of uncertainty about how you will handle this situation. Unfortunately, you are likely even more overwhelmed if a debt collector is harassing you, especially if you receive an obnoxious number of phone calls. Sometimes, debt collectors cross the line and violate a debtor’s rights.
If you believe that your rights were violated and debt collectors are subjecting you to unlawful harassment, it is imperative to identify illegal activity and look into your legal options.
Reviewing examples of unlawful creditor harassment
According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, there are various examples of unlawful debt collector harassment. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, debt collectors are prohibited from harassing or abusing borrowers they contact. Sometimes, unlawful harassment consists of repeated phone calls and debt collectors are also prohibited from using vulgar language when contacting those who owe debts. In some instances, debt collectors even threaten violence.
Reviewing your legal options in the wake of creditor harassment
If you have experienced unlawful creditor harassment, you need to closely review all of your options. Sometimes, people are able to put an end to the harassment by filing a lawsuit and secure benefits for their terrible experiences. It is very important to gather evidence of wrongdoing, such as nasty text messages, recordings and other proof of mistreatment. Some people are hesitant to stand up for their rights because they are afraid of retaliation, additional financial consequences or harassment, but this should not get in the way of holding abusive debt collectors accountable.
