Not everything a debt collector does is legal. In fact, many of the tactics that feel the most intimidating are the ones that cross the line.

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) sets clear rules about what collectors can and cannot do. Here are five red flags that a collector may be violating your rights:

1. Calling before 8am or after 9pm

Collectors are not allowed to contact you at unreasonable times. Early morning and late night calls are a violation.

2. Threatening you with arrest or jail

You cannot be arrested for unpaid consumer debt. If a collector says otherwise, they’re breaking the law — and trying to scare you into paying.

3. Contacting you at work after you’ve asked them to stop

Once you tell a collector not to call your workplace, they must stop. Period.

4. Discussing your debt with family, friends, or coworkers

Your debt is your private business. Collectors can contact others only to find your contact information — not to talk about what you owe.

5. Using profanity, insults, or threats of violence

This should go without saying, but it happens more often than you’d think. Any form of harassment or abuse is illegal.

If any of this sounds familiar, you may be entitled to compensation — yes, the collector may actually owe YOU money.

At Lincoln Law Center, we hold collectors accountable. If your rights have been violated, we want to hear about it. Call us for a free consultation.