Last time, we talked about some of the changes that are coming to the debt collection process, including communications that are sent via email and text messaging. Some consumer advocacy organizations have expressed concerns that consumers are going to be deluged with messages via electronic channels by debt collectors. But the rules that are going to regulate how collectors are allowed to use text messaging and email will include a number of safeguards to ensure that collectors do not take advantage of the opportunity and harass consumers unnecessarily.
The most important safeguard that is going to protect consumers is the ability to opt out of receiving communications via any channel, at any point in time. All consumers have to do is communicate their wish to no longer receive communications in any channel at any time using a reasonable means, and collectors will be obligated to abide by that choice. Don’t want to receive text messages anymore? Just text “stop.” Don’t want to receive emails? Just reply back “please stop sending me emails.” It’s going to be that simple. It will work for any type of communication that a collector makes — including phone calls.
CONSUMERS HAVE COMMUNICATION OPTIONS, INCLUDING NO COMMUNICATION AT ALL
It is important to note that opting out of receiving communications from collectors may prevent you from receiving important information about the status of your debt, but consumers will have all the power to make that choice, whenever they want. And should a consumer change his or her mind and decide to start receiving communications via a channel that he or she had previously opted out of, the process can absolutely be reversed.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has tried to make rules and regulations that are fair to everyone, consumers and debt collectors. That means that consumers are protected from unfair behaviors or tactics in a number of ways. Putting the power of choosing not to receive communications from a collector is a prime example of that. Any consumer can opt out of receiving any time of message at any time.
Many collectors will actively seek to identify consumers’ communication preferences in order to reach those individuals in the way that the consumers want to be reached. Making sure that consumers receive relevant and pertinent information about their debt is something that is in everyone’s best interests, and something that collectors will strive for, at every opportunity.
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