5 tactics of bad debt collectors and what to do about them

By Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell

For the first time in your life, you’re being pursued by debt collectors. You don’t know what your rights are — or if you have any at all.

You’re not alone…

1. Know your rights.
2. Understand negotiation tactics.
3. Unsatisfied? Move up the ladder.
4. Check out credit counselors.
5. Expect consequences if you’re silent.

For more on debt collection, check out this video:
Debt collectors more willing to make a deal

Charges of illegal tactics by debt collectors ranked second in the amount of complaints received by the Federal Trade Commission in 2008. In the first six months of 2009, consumers filed 45,050 complaints with the FTC about debt collectors. That figure is 19 percent higher than the same period in 2008.

Beyond the illegal tactics, there are also tricks of the trade that collectors will use on unwary consumers. In this recession, many consumers are new to collections and may not be aware that although they may owe, they don’t have to put up with abusive collection practices. .

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Tags: Bad Debt, Bad Debt Collectors, Collectors, Debt Collectors