With debt collection activities back on the rise it is important to learn how to spot unfair and fraudulent debt collection practices. Here's what you should look out for and strategies to keep you from getting scammed or abused by debt collectors.

Here is a list of warning signs of RED FLAGS that will alert you to abusive behavior or scams:

1. Social Media Messages That Are Not Private. New laws stupidly allow debt collectors to invade your private social media space. However, debt collectors can send friend requests or follow you if they tell you upfront that they're debt collectors. Further, debt collection communications must remain private. If any debt collectors friend you under false pretenses or post anything publicly on your social media this is a good sign you are being scammed or abused.
2. Leaving Out Important Information. The law requires debt collectors to share details about the debt, including the amount due, creditor's name, and basic disclosures required by law. If they refuse to provide you with any of this information you are being scammed or abused.
3. They Threaten or Harass You. Being threatened with arrest, lawsuits, violence, humiliation, or being spoken to with abusive and foul language is a sure-fire sign you are being scammed or abused.
4. Unusual Payment Requests. Requests for payment through money transfers, bitcoin, prepaid cards, etc., means you're dealing with a scammer or abusive debt collector. Legitimate debt collection companies won't ask you to pay in bitcoin or to buy prepaid Visa cards.

Don't ever pay any money to a debt collector without calling Florida Consumer Lawyers first. Make sure you record any information, such as name, phone number, what was said during conversations, and screenshots of any social media posts or direct messages. The information will help us build a case against any abusive debt collectors. Under the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Florida Consumer Collection Protection Act (FCCPA) you may be entitled to up to $1,000 statutory damages and any actual damages I the event you deal with an abusive debt collector that broke the law. Don't be a victim. Call us today.