The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) prohibits debt collectors from harassing or abusing you or third parties related to you, such as friends, neighbors and family members. Some examples of harassment are: Repeated phone calls or text messages intended to annoy, intimidate or harass you or any person answering the phone Using profanity Threats of violence or harm Threats of legal action without intent to follow through Publicizing your debts (not including credit reporting bureaus) Calling you without identifying who they are