Kentucky residents like you have to go through a lot when handling your debts. The last thing you need is a debt collector harassing you day and night in an attempt to get money from you.

But how can you tell when the line into harassment gets crossed? How do you know if actions taken against you are abusive or harmful? And how do you act against it?

What is debt collector harassment?

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau looks at what constitutes creditor harassment. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, debt collectors cannot “oppress, abuse or harass” you. They cannot act in this way toward anyone they come in contact with, either. This includes roommates or family members who may be debt-free but living with you.

Behaviors categories as harassing include:

  • Profane or obscene language
  • Threats of violence or harm to you or other residents
  • Calling without identifying themselves
  • Calling repeatedly with the intention of annoying, harassing or abusing you
  • Making a public list of people who owe debts

What can you do if you are harassed?

So what can you do if a debt collector harasses you? There are a few options available. However, a way to kill two birds with one stone is to file for bankruptcy. Not only will this help you take care of your issues with your debt, but it protects you from creditor harassment. After filing for bankruptcy, creditors and debt collectors cannot contact you in any way. This stops them from seeking the loopholes that often lead to harassment. As such, you may wish to speak to a bankruptcy attorney to view your options.