“In the United States today, debt collection is a $13.7 billion dollar industry with more than 6,000 debt collection firms operating in the United States. The CFPB estimates that about one in three consumers, more than 70 million people, were contacted by a creditor or collector seeking to collect a debt within the past year. Dealing with debt collection issues can be difficult and stressful for consumers, and consumers may face debt collectors who use unfair or otherwise illegal practices. The CFPB handles more complaints about debt collection than any other financial product or service. The CFPB has tools and resources to assist you in helping consumers with debt collection issues.” If you or someone you know is being contacted about debts they may (or may NOT) owe, check out this resource: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/debt-collection/
Just because a debt collector is contacting you does NOT mean that you owe the debt. You may owe nothing or far less than they are trying to collect. Know your rights!
The CFPB is under attack and threat of elimination under the new administration.
Source: Financial Planning for Women