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How can I deal with aggressive debt collectors?

Sharon McDougall - Updated - 6th March 2025 - 2 minutes to read

Dealing with debt collectors can be a highly stressful experience at the best of times, but when they’re aggressive in their techniques, how do you deal with it?

It is important to know that strict regulations surround the collection of debts, and it’s against the law for debt collectors to act aggressively, intimidate or bully, or suggest that they can carry out certain enforcement actions when in reality they cannot.

So what do you do when a debt collector contacts you and acts aggressively whilst trying to collect a debt, whether in person, on the telephone, or by letter?

Find out as much as possible about the debt

It’s not uncommon for the wrong person to be chased for an unpaid debt, so the first step is to confirm whether you do actually owe the money. You can do this by writing to the debt collection agency, and ask them for the original credit agreement; they are obliged to provide you with this on request.

You can also inform them that you only want to communicate by letter – this should put an end to phone calls or visits to your home.

If you owe the money they’re trying to collect and you can afford to pay some or all of it, it’s advisable to do so - this will prevent any further escalation of what could become a very stressful situation.

Should you be unable to pay anything towards your debt, however, you may be able to negotiate a new, more affordable repayment plan.

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Aggressive debt collector action to be aware of

Debt collectors should not be aggressive, nor should they use tactics to bully or intimidate you. Here are some aggressive debt collection methods which should not be used:

  • Attempting to force their way into your home – Debt collectors have no right of entry into your property, and should only enter if invited. They must also leave when requested. You don’t even have to answer the door when they arrive, and this can sometimes be the best option if you’re not sure of your rights.
  • Telling you they have power to seize your possessions – A debt collector might tell you they’re going to remove possessions from inside or outside your property, but they have no such authority. Only bailiffs can seize goods and possessions in repayment of a debt.
  • Saying they can deduct repayments from your wages without a court order – Debt collectors require court authority before money can be taken from your wages.

If you are dealing with an aggressive debt collector, you should make it a priority to seek expert help and advice in resolving the situation. If your financial position makes it impossible for you to pay your outstanding debts as and when they fall due, you may need to consider entering into a formal process such as a Trust Deed, a Debt Arrangement Scheme (DAS), and Sequestration.

Scotland Debt Solutions has been helping Scottish residents to escape debt for over 30 years. Our expert team has extensive experience of advising clients when debt collectors use aggression as a means to obtain payment - we will make sure you understand your rights, and the best way to proceed. Contact us today for free initial advice on your options.

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Sharon McDougall

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