Collection Agencies Crossing The Line:
When is Enough, Enough?

by Jennifer Lis
(United States)

Response to news article:

It is the job of a debt collector to get the money owed to their clients. They place several phone calls and send letters. But at what point does a collector cross the line? Today, the country is going through very difficult times, and people need the money owed to them. The flip side is people can’t afford to pay it back. Some collectors are resorting to a by any means necessary mentality.

Such behavior led to a wrongful death lawsuit in Tampa. The collection agency continued to harass Dianne McLeod’s husband with up to 12 phone calls a day. The stress compromised his weak heart, and he suffered a fatal heart attack.

Debt collectors are using unsavory and sometimes illegal tactics to collect debts. Many people are fighting back and suing the collectors for such practices. In New York, the attorney general is lobbying for laws that will further protect the consumer.

If a person owes a debt, it is their responsibility to pay it back. However, many times collectors are too aggressive when they approach the debtor. Instead of working with them to resolve the issue, they resort to threats. It is better to collect some funds than zero.

Also, the collectors should be informed about their cases. It is not right to accuse someone of having debts when it is not true. They should have to pay for false accusations. Personal responsibility is just as important as ethical business practices.