According to a 2021 report, the average American is $90,460 in debt. A recent survey reports that 47 percent of Americans carry a monthly balance on their credit cards. 70% of those people say they cannot pay it off this year.
Despite debt being so common, we live in a society that stigmatizes those who owe money. People in debt are often so ashamed they do not seek the help they need. When people feel isolated in this way, they become a prime target for exploitation.
To better equip you against their manipulations, we would like to share with you some of the most common scare tactics used by debt collectors. We will also tell you what you can do about it.
The Fair Debt Collection Privacy Act (FDCPA), as we have discussed on this blog numerous times, shields you from third-party debt collectors who use harassment and other unfair tactics in an attempt to collect a debt. Third-party debt collectors are those who either collect for the original creditor or who have bought the debt. You should know exactly what a debt collector is and is not permitted to do before you deal with them.
You have the right to sue a debt collector for damages and attorney fees if they violate your rights under the FDCPA. You can learn more from a competent, experienced Florida debt collection defense lawyer, and many of them, like Attorney Debt Fighters, provide a free initial consultation.
Debt collectors, oh boy! The mere thought of them makes many shudder. They resemble the unwanted visitor who knocks on your door when you’re trying to unwind. And as for their strategies, well, let’s just say that they’re not exactly renowned for their tact.
But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the murky waters of debt collection and help you recognize the intimidation tactics that these people may use against you.
So do debt collectors use scare tactics? The answer is a resounding YES! In fact it’s their bread and butter. They’ll try everything from excessive calls to threatening wage garnishment to pushing you into paying old, time-barred debts.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to fall for it!
Here’s what you need to know about debt collector scare tactics and how to protect yourself:
Top 7 Debt Collector Scare Tactics
1. Excessive Calls: These folks are relentless! They’ll call you over and over again, hoping to wear you down and get you to pay. But remember, you don’t have to answer! You can even write a “cease and desist” letter, and they legally can’t call you anymore.
2. Threatening Wage Garnishment: This is a big one. They’ll try to scare you into thinking they can take your hard-earned money straight from your paycheck. But hold your horses! Wage garnishment is a long process that requires a court order. So, unless they’ve taken you to court and won, they can’t touch your wages.
3. Stating You Have a Deadline: Another classic scare tactic. They’ll threaten you with dire consequences if you don’t pay by a certain date. However, resist their pressure! They too have deadlines to meet, and failing to do so will prevent them from suing you in the future.
4. Gathering Past Debts: These individuals enjoy unearthing past debts that you might have overlooked. However, here’s the catch: they cannot lawfully collect the debt if it is too old. Thus, avoid being duped into paying for a debt that is no longer legitimate.
5. Pressuring You to Pay in Order to “Improve Your Credit Score”: They may claim that clearing your debt will raise your credit score right away. Although paying off debt can eventually raise your credit score, this won’t happen right away. So, don’t fall for their quick-fix promises.
6. Stating They “Don’t Need to Prove Your Debt Exists”: This is a big no-no! Debt collectors have to prove that you actually owe the debt before they can take any action. So, don’t let them bully you into paying without proof.
7. Sharing Your Debt With Family and Friends: This is a major violation of your privacy. Debt collectors are not allowed to discuss your debt with anyone other than your spouse. So, if they try to shame you by contacting your loved ones, report them immediately.
Understanding the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
The good news is that you’re not alone in this fight. You are shielded from debt collectors who employ unethical or intimidating methods by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Thus, you have the right to report and even sue a debt collector for damages if you believe they are violating the law.
What is SoloSuit?
SoloSuit is your secret weapon against debt collectors. It’s a web-based tool that helps you respond to debt collection lawsuits quickly and easily. No more drowning in paperwork or feeling lost in the legal maze. SoloSuit takes care of everything, from generating the necessary forms to filing them with the court.
Here’s why SoloSuit is your best friend when dealing with debt collectors:
- Easy to use: No legal jargon, just simple questions that guide you through the process.
- Affordable: Compared to hiring a lawyer, SoloSuit is a much more budget-friendly option.
- Time-saving: No more spending hours researching and filling out forms. SoloSuit does it all for you.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you have a team of experts on your side gives you the confidence to face any debt collector.
Don’t Let Debt Collectors Bully You
Remember, you have rights! Don’t let these high-pressure tactics intimidate you. With a little knowledge and the right tools, you can take control of the situation and protect yourself from unfair debt collection practices.
So, the next time a debt collector tries to scare you, remember these tips:
- Stay calm and collected.
- Don’t give in to their pressure.
- Know your rights under the FDCPA.
- Use SoloSuit to fight back.
You’ve got this!
Lying About Your Debt
A debt collector might make up information about the amount you owe or claim that you have debts that are no longer enforceable. Ask the debt collector in writing (and by certified mail) to prove that you owe the debt. Debt collectors cannot contact you about the debt until they send you verification.
If the debt is older, ask your Florida debt collection defense lawyer about the applicable statute of limitations. A debt collector cannot bring a lawsuit against you after the statute of limitations has run unless you have done something to relaunch the statute of limitations, like paying a debt. You can revive an old, dead debt if you make any payments on it after the statute of limitations has passed or if you arrange to do so.
Other Forms of Harassment
It is illegal for debt collectors to harass you. This harassment can come in many different forms, like being called names, being referred to as a thief, being threatened with unfeasible legal action, or even being physically harmed. Don’t stand for it. You don’t have to speak with them, and you should get in touch with your attorney straight away if you are being harassed.
Common Scare Tactics by Debt Collectors
FAQ
What are the tactics of debt collectors?
What are the illegal tactics for debt collection?
Can debt collectors intimidate you?
What should you not say to a collection agency?
Are collection agencies a scam?
Collection agencies have been known to try to scam relatives into paying the deceased loved one’s debts. In these situations, the estate is responsible for the debts. Assets are used to pay creditors first, which could affect potential inheritance, but they cannot come after you to pay debts a relative is responsible for.
How do debt collector scams work?
Here’s how debt collector scams typically play out: Scammers contact you and claim that you owe a debt. Most debt collection scams happen over the phone, but scammers may also reach out via texts, emails, or even visit you in person. During the interaction, they use your personal information to make you feel that the debt is legitimate.
Is a call from a debt collector a scam?
If you recently received a call, text or written correspondence from a debt collector, it could be a scam. According to the Federal Trade Commission, over 116,450 debt collection reports were received in 2022, with 46.2 percent of these reports relating to abusive debt collection activity or a debt not owed by the consumer.
Are Debt Collector calls illegal?
Don’t let debt collector calls catch you off guard. Many people have experienced intrusive, harassing, and sometimes threatening calls and messages from debt collectors. It’s no secret that collection agencies use various phone and other tactics to get people to pay debts. Some of these practices are illegal, and some aren’t.