Can a debt collector ever contact my friends, family, or employer?

In California, debt collectors are not allowed to contact your friends, family, or employer in order to collect a debt. This includes calling, emailing, texting, faxing, or any other type of communication. They are not allowed to ask your friends and family for information about your whereabouts, income, or personal finances. Debt collectors are only allowed to contact your family or friends to ask for contact information to reach you. They are not allowed to explain the reason why they are contacting them or discuss the debt in any way. They are also not allowed to discuss the debt with your employer or any of your co-workers. If you feel like a debt collector is attempting to contact your friends, family, or employer in an inappropriate way, you can report them to the Federal Trade Commission and the California Department of Business Oversight. They will look into the situation and if the debt collector has violated any laws, they can be fined or even face criminal charges.

Related FAQs

What information can a debt collector give to credit bureaus?
Can a debt collector contact me at my place of work if I’ve asked them not to?
Can a debt collector contact me if I’m on a debt repayment plan?
What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act enforcement process?
What types of debt are covered by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?
Are there any exemptions from the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?
Can a debt collector contact me if I’ve filed for bankruptcy?
Is it legal for a debt collector to claim they are going to take legal action against me?
What happens if I don’t respond to a debt collector’s request for payment?
Can a debt collector contact other people if I don’t pay my debt?

Can a debt collector ever contact my friends, family, or employer?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts