What is a debt collection scam?

A debt collection scam is a type of fraud where scammers pose as debt collectors in order to gain personal information or money from unsuspecting victims. The goal of these scammers is to steal money or the personal and financial information of the victim. Often, debt collection scams involve aggressive tactics such as harassing phone calls and threatening emails in which the scammer claims to be a legitimate debt collector and promises to reduce or waive the debt if the victim pays a fee. In Texas, it is illegal for debt collectors to engage in deceptive practices in order to collect a debt. According to the Texas Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), debt collectors are prohibited from lying, using false or misleading language, or making false or deceptive representations. Additionally, debt collectors are not allowed to threaten or coerce debtors in order to collect payment. Victims of debt collection scams should report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Texas Office of the Attorney General (OAG), or their local Better Business Bureau (BBB). Consumers can also contact a consumer protection lawyer for help. Additionally, the FTC and OAG have resources and tools available to assist victims of debt collection scams.

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What is a debt collection scam?

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