Section 807 of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. Sec. 1692e, provides, in part, as follows:
A debt collector may not use any false, deceptive, or misleading representation or means in connection with the collection of any debt. Without limiting the general application of the foregoing, the following conduct is a violation of this section:
"(1) The false representation or implication that the debt collector is vouched for, bonded by, or affiliated with the United States or any State, including the use of any badge, uniform, or facsimile thereof."
Title: Tennessee Letter to Address False or Misleading Debt Collection Misrepresentations Regarding Affiliation with the United States Introduction: In Tennessee, individuals facing debt collection activities have the right to protect themselves from false or misleading representations made by debt collectors. One such misrepresentation is when a debt collector falsely implies or represents to be vouched for, bonded by, or affiliated with the United States government. To combat this deceptive practice, individuals can utilize a specific letter to inform the debt collector of their false or misleading misrepresentations. Let's explore the necessary elements of a Tennessee Letter Informing Debt Collector of False or Misleading Misrepresentations in Collection Activities related to the false representation or implication of affiliation with the United States. Content: Dear [Debt Collector's Name], Subject: False or Misleading Misrepresentations in Collection Activities — Affiliation with the United States I am writing this letter to bring to your attention certain false or misleading misrepresentations that have come to my notice regarding your debt collection activities. Specifically, it has come to my attention that you have falsely represented or implied that your debt collection agency is vouched for, bonded by, or affiliated with the United States government. This letter serves as an official notice, in accordance with the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FD CPA) and Tennessee state law, to address this misleading and deceptive practice. Under the FD CPA, it is prohibited for debt collectors to make false representations and imply affiliations with governmental bodies to mislead or deceive consumers. I request that you immediately cease and desist from making any further false or misleading representations implying that your agency is vouched for, bonded by, or affiliated with the United States government. Furthermore, please be advised that the FD CPA holds debt collectors accountable for violations and provides consumers with the right to take legal action against such deceptive practices. As a conscientious consumer, I am aware of my rights and will not hesitate to pursue legal action if necessary to enforce them. I kindly request that you acknowledge the receipt of this letter within [a specified timeframe] and provide a written assurance that you will discontinue the false or misleading representations related to affiliation with the United States government. Failure to comply with this request may result in appropriate legal action being pursued against your collection agency. Please be aware that further violations could lead to penalties, fines, and may negatively impact your ability to practice debt collection activities within the state of Tennessee. Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter. I anticipate prompt and appropriate action from your side to resolve this issue. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Phone Number] [Email Address] Types of Tennessee Letters Informing Debt Collectors of False or Misleading Misrepresentations: 1. Tennessee Letter Informing Debt Collector of False Representation that they are Vouched for by the United States. 2. Tennessee Letter Informing Debt Collector of False Representation that they are Bonded by the United States. 3. Tennessee Letter Informing Debt Collector of False Representation that they are Affiliated with the United States.
