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: Wisconsin Letter to Address False Representations of Debt Collector's Affiliation with the United States Introduction: In the state of Wisconsin, individuals have the right to demand accuracy and honest representation from debt collectors. If you encounter a situation where a debt collector falsely implies or represents their vouched for, bonded by, or affiliated status with the United States, it is essential to take action to protect your rights. This document serves as a detailed description of the Wisconsin Letter Informing Debt Collector of False or Misleading Misrepresentations in Collection Activities — specifically targeting the false representation or implication of the debt collector's affiliation with the United States. Types of Wisconsin Letters Informing Debt Collectors of False Representations: 1. Letter Asserting False Implication of Vouched for Connection: Subject: Notice of False Implication of Vouched for Connection by Debt Collector Dear [Debt Collector's Full Name], I am writing to address a concerning matter related to your collection activities concerning my outstanding debt. It has come to my attention that you have been falsely implying or representing in your communication that your organization is vouched for or endorsed by the United States. This false implication is a direct violation of the [Wisconsin Consumer Protection/Debt Collection Act]. Please note that I have thoroughly researched your organization, and no legitimate evidence supports your claim that you are affiliated with or vouched for by the United States government. Such misrepresented claims are deceptive, misleading, and potentially damaging to my rights as a consumer. I demand an immediate cessation of any further false implications or representations of an affiliation with the United States in all future communications, including phone calls, letters, or any other form of contact. Furthermore, I require written confirmation within [10 business days] that you have complied with this demand. Failure to adhere to this request will result in my initiation of legal action, exposing you to potential legal consequences under the [relevant state statutes or consumer protection laws]. I urge you to rectify this issue and ensure your organization operates ethically and legally. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Phone Number] 2. Letter Addressing Misleading Misrepresentations of Bonded Status: Subject: Notice of Misleading Misrepresentation of Bonded Status by Debt Collector Dear [Debt Collector's Full Name], I am writing to bring to your attention a significant concern regarding the representation of your organization in connection with collecting my outstanding debt. It has come to my attention that you have been falsely implying or representing that your organization is bonded by the United States government. Such misleading statements can create confusion and potentially deceive consumers, leading them to make decisions based on inaccuracies. Upon conducting thorough research into your organization, I have found no credible evidence supporting your claim of being bonded by the United States government. This misrepresentation is not only unethical but also a direct violation of the [Wisconsin Consumer Protection/Debt Collection Act]. I demand an immediate withdrawal of any further misleading statements regarding your bonded status with the United States government. This includes all forms of communication, such as phone calls, letters, or any other type of contact. I also require written confirmation within [10 business days] that you have ceased this misrepresentation. Failure to address this issue promptly will leave me no choice but to pursue legal action, causing potential consequences under [relevant state statutes or consumer protection laws]. I strongly urge you to rectify this matter promptly and ensure the adherence of ethical and legal practices within your organization. Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Phone Number] Note: It is important to customize the letter according to your specific situation, ensuring accuracy when describing the debt collector's false representation or implication.
