If you're receiving persistent or aggressive calls from North American Recovery (NAR), you're not alone. Many consumers have reported similar issues. The good news is that you have legal rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to stop this harassment and seek compensation.
Who Is North American Recovery?
North American Recovery, Inc. (NAR) is a third-party debt collection agency based in Utah. They specialize in recovering debts for various creditors, including healthcare providers, credit card companies, and student loan servicers. While debt collection is legal, some consumers report that NAR engages in practices that violate consumer protection laws.
Common Harassment Tactics Reported by Consumers
Consumers have reported various forms of harassment by NAR, including:
Excessive and Unsolicited Calls: Receiving multiple calls per day, often at inconvenient hours.
Threats of Legal Action: Being threatened with lawsuits or wage garnishment without basis.
Contacting Family and Neighbors: Discussing your debt with third parties, which is a violation of privacy laws.
Use of Profanity or Abusive Language: Employing offensive language during conversations.
Failure to Validate Debt: Not providing proper documentation or proof of the debt upon request.
False Reporting to Credit Bureaus: Sending deceptive letters claiming to have reported debts to credit bureaus when they have not.
These practices are not only unethical but also illegal under the FDCPA.
Your Rights Under the FDCPA
The FDCPA protects consumers from abusive debt collection practices. Under this law, you have the right to:
Request Validation of the Debt: Ask for proof that you owe the debt and that the collector has the right to collect it.
Limit Communication: Request that the collector cease contacting you, except for specific legal notices.
Sue for Damages: If a collector violates the FDCPA, you can sue for damages, including statutory damages up to $1,000, plus attorney's fees.
Protect Your Privacy: Debt collectors cannot disclose information about your debt to anyone except you or your attorney.
Steps to Take If You're Being Harassed
If you're experiencing harassment from NAR, consider the following steps:
Document All Communications: Keep a detailed record of all interactions with NAR, including dates, times, and the nature of the conversation.
Send a Cease and Desist Letter: Formally request that NAR stop contacting you. Send this letter via certified mail and keep a copy for your records.
File a Complaint: Report NAR to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), your State Attorney General, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Consult an Attorney: Seek legal advice to understand your options and possibly pursue a lawsuit against NAR for violations of the FDCPA.
Legal Actions Taken Against Debt Collectors
Debt collectors have faced legal scrutiny for their collection practices. For instance, in the case of Gregory v. Systematic National Collections, Inc., a California consumer alleged that SNC sent a series of deceptive and threatening collection letters, including false claims of reporting debts to credit bureaus.
Such actions highlight the importance of understanding your rights and taking appropriate steps to protect yourself from unlawful debt collection practices.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Debt Collection Harassment
To safeguard yourself from potential harassment by debt collectors:
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the FDCPA and understand what debt collectors can and cannot do.
Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal or financial information over the phone unless you're certain of the caller's identity.
Seek Professional Advice: Consult with a consumer rights attorney if you're unsure about how to handle a debt collection situation.
Stay Calm and Composed: If you decide to communicate with a debt collector, remain calm and assertive. Do not be intimidated by threats or aggressive tactics.
Conclusion
Dealing with debt collection harassment can be stressful and overwhelming. However, it's crucial to remember that you have legal protections in place. By understanding your rights and taking proactive steps, you can stop the harassment and seek justice. If you're facing issues with North American Recovery or any other debt collector, consider reaching out to a consumer rights attorney to explore your options.
If you need assistance or have questions about dealing with debt collection harassment, don't hesitate to seek professional advice. Remember, you don't have to face this challenge alone.