Can a creditor disclose personal information to your family, friendsor employer?
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Can a creditor disclose personal information to your family, friendsor employer?
I used a rent-to-own agency to furnish my living room with a couch. I moved out of my apartment and out of state but did not take the furniture with me. It is in storage in the original state of rental. I missed a few payments and the general manager of the company contacted my employer, friends, and extended family tell them “I defaulted on payments, left the state with their merchandise without permission and am being prosecuted for theft.” It has been a huge stress. Is it legal for them to give my personal details and information to people I do not live with or am not related to? Has this rent-to-own agency violated my privacy rights?
Asked on October 22, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, Indiana
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
In many states in this country there are laws against unfair credit collection practices. Likewise, there is a federal law on this subject as well.
For the creditor to contact your friends and acquaintances stating that you defaulted on your payments, left the state of Indiana with the merchandise without permission and that you are being prosecuted for theft could very well be an unfair credit collection practice in your state and under federal law.
The conduct of a representative for the creditor could very well be subject to a legal action by you. I recommend that you consult with an attorney experienced in debtor's rights if you want to pursue a possible action against the rent to own agency.
Good luck.
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