Creditor Harassment Explained
Creditor harassment occurs when creditor or collection agencies partake in unlawful collection activities against debtors.  If a creditor or collection agency calls a debtor names, threatens to harm the debtor in some way or sends fraudulent legal notices to the debtor, it is considered creditor harassment.  What many people do not realize that since Congress passed the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), creditor harassment has become illegal and is punishable by law.

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
Years ago, Congress passed the FDCPA after receiving many reports and complaints about debtor abuse.  Countless debtors were being subjected to maltreatment from creditors and collection agencies who were trying to force, threaten and intimidate them into paying back their debts.  When the FDCPA passed, creditors were provided with strict guidelines on which collection activities are legal and illegal.

Debts Covered Under the FDCPA
The FDCPA covers all unsecured debts and some secured debts.  Debts that are covered include:  credit card debt, medical bills, mortgages, car payments and certain types of loans.

Stopping Creditor Harassment
If you wish to stop creditor harassment, there are numerous things you should do.  First, ask the creditor to send you a certified letter that verifies your debt.  The letter should include the amount of your debt, the name of the creditor who is trying to collect the debt and the date you incurred the debt.  Second, tell the creditor to stop calling you.  Once you have told creditors to stop contacting you, they must adhere to your request.  In cases where you need additional support and assistance, contact a skilled creditor harassment attorney who can deal with creditors on your behalf.