Protect Yourself from Harassing Debt Collectors: Dealing with Distressing Phone Calls and Taking Action

Receiving constant or aggressive phone calls from debt collectors can be emotionally exhausting, mentally draining, and even frightening. While debt collectors are legally allowed to contact you about unpaid debts, they are not allowed to harass you. Unfortunately, many collectors cross the line, turning a financial matter into a personal nightmare.

The good news is that you don’t have to suffer in silence. At American Legal Shield, we help consumers protect themselves from harassing debt collection practices and take back control of their lives.

What Counts as Harassment?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that sets clear rules about how and when a debt collector can contact you. If a collector violates these rules, they are breaking the law.

Here are some examples of what may count as harassment:

• Calling you multiple times a day
• Using abusive, threatening, or obscene language
• Calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
• Calling you at work after you’ve told them not to
• Contacting your family, friends, or employer about your debt
• Ignoring written requests to stop communication
• Making false threats of arrest, legal action, or wage garnishment

If any of these sound familiar, you may be a victim of debt collection harassment—and you have the right to take action.

First Steps: Dealing with Harassing Phone Calls

When you’re in the moment, receiving a distressing call can feel overwhelming. But taking a few steps can make a big difference.

1. Stay Calm and Take Notes

Don’t argue or raise your voice. Instead, remain calm and take notes. Write down:

• The name of the caller and the agency they represent
• The date and time of the call
• What was said, especially any threats or abusive language
• The phone number they called from

This documentation can be used later to file complaints or pursue legal action.

2. Tell Them to Stop Calling Your Workplace

If you’re being contacted at work and it’s not allowed by your employer, tell the collector clearly. Under the FDCPA, they must stop contacting you at work once you ask them not to.

3. Request Everything in Writing

You have the right to request that all future communication be made in writing. This stops the phone calls and gives you a paper trail for everything said.

4. Send a Cease and Desist Letter

A written cease and desist letter tells the collector to stop contacting you entirely. Once they receive it, they can only reach out again to confirm they’ll stop contacting you or to inform you of legal action.

Know Your Rights

Understanding your rights is the best defense against illegal debt collection tactics. Under the FDCPA, you are entitled to:

• Respectful and non-threatening communication
• Validation of the debt upon request
• The right to dispute the debt in writing
• The right to limit or stop communication
• The right to file complaints or lawsuits for violations

Debt collectors who break these rules can face lawsuits, fines, and other penalties.

What to Do If Harassment Continues

If the harassing calls don’t stop, take further action:

• File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
• Report the collector to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Reach out to your state’s attorney general
• Consult with a consumer protection attorney

How American Legal Shield Can Help

At American Legal Shield, we specialize in protecting consumers from debt collection harassment. Our team can:

• Review your case and explain your rights
• Draft cease and desist letters for you
• Communicate directly with debt collectors on your behalf
• Help you file complaints with federal agencies
• Connect you with legal professionals if further action is needed

You don’t have to face this alone.

Contact Us Today
Phone: (888) 508-6205
Email: [email protected]

Final Thoughts

Harassing phone calls from debt collectors can take a toll on your health, peace of mind, and daily life. But you don’t have to accept this treatment. With the right knowledge, tools, and support, you can make it stop and protect yourself from further abuse.

If you’re tired of the calls, threats, and stress, take the first step today. American Legal Shield is here to help you stand up to illegal debt collection practices and move forward with confidence.