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."
Subject: Cease False Representations: Incorrect Association with the United States [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Date] [Debt Collector's Name] [Debt Collector's Address] [City, State, ZIP] Re: [Your Full Name] Account Number: [Account Number] Dear [Debt Collector's Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am reaching out to bring to your attention certain false or misleading misrepresentations that have come to my attention in your collection activities concerning the alleged debt associated with my name. It has recently come to my attention that you have been falsely representing or implying that you are vouched for, bonded by, or affiliated with the United States government. It is important to clarify that any such representation or implication is grossly inaccurate and misleading, and it generates a false sense of authority and legitimacy. I would like to emphasize that under the provisions of the Connecticut Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (CFD CPA), false or misleading representations in collection activities are strictly prohibited. Specifically, CFD CPA Section 36a-809(a)(1) states that it is unlawful to use any false representation or implication that the debt collector is sponsored, approved, or endorsed by any governmental entity, including the United States. By engaging in such false representations, you not only violate the rights provided to me under federal and state laws but also undermine the credibility and transparency of your collection practices. I hereby request that you cease all false or misleading representations indicating an affiliation with or vouching by the United States government. Furthermore, I expect prompt action from your organization to correct any previously disseminated misleading information that puts forth a false impression. Please be aware that I am keeping an accurate record of all communication and activities regarding this matter. Should I discover any further instances of false representations in the future, I will not hesitate to escalate my concerns to the appropriate regulatory bodies, including the Connecticut Department of Banking, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and any other relevant entities. I am prepared to take any necessary legal actions to protect my rights and address the deceptive practices I have outlined in this letter. However, I hope we can resolve this matter amicably and come to a mutual understanding regarding your future collection practices. I kindly request written confirmation, within 14 days from the receipt of this letter, that you have taken appropriate actions to cease any false or misleading representations incorporating an affiliation with the United States government. Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter. I trust that you will handle my concerns professionally and proactively. Failure to address these issues and demonstrate necessary corrective measures may result in legal action, as well as reporting this matter to the aforementioned regulatory bodies. Yours sincerely, [Your Name]
