What Consumer Act specifically governs the practices of collection agencies?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is the specific consumer protection law that governs the practices of collection agencies. Enacted in 1977, the FDCPA aims to eliminate abusive, deceptive, and unfair debt collection practices. It sets clear guidelines on how debt collectors can conduct their work, including prohibiting practices such as harassment, false statements, and unauthorized contact with third parties.

The Act provides consumers with specific rights, such as the right to request verification of the debt and the right to be treated with respect and dignity. It also restricts the times and places where collectors can contact debtors, ensuring that consumers are not subjected to intimidation or undue pressure.

The other options focus on different aspects of consumer protection:

• The Truth in Lending Act primarily focuses on informing consumers about the terms and costs of borrowing, ensuring they understand what they are agreeing to when taking out loans.
• The Fair Credit Billing Act deals with resolving billing errors in credit accounts and provides consumers with protections regarding their credit billing practices.
• The Fair Credit Reporting Act regulates how credit information is collected, shared, and used, aiming to ensure accuracy, fairness, and privacy in the credit reporting system.

In summary, the FDCPA specifically addresses the conduct of debt collection agencies and