Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Pennsylvania
Calling Neighbors
I had a visit today from my neighbor. He received a call asking for my wife. He then took a message for her and brought it over. I called the number and it was a collection agency. They told me they are allowed to do a cross reference of neighbors addresses and call those neighbors to give me a message. The neighbor they reached is elderly and we don't speak except to say hello. Are they legally allowed to contact your neighbors about your personal business? Isn't it a privacy breach?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Calling Neighbors
This is a violation of the Federal Fair Debt and Practices Act. I suggest you consult legal counsel who is expert in this area, as this violation will subject the collection agency to penalties and attorney fees. Gerald Hershenson Esq.
Re: Calling Neighbors
It may NOT be a violation. If they did not tell the neighbor who they were or what they were calling about, it's likely not a violation.