Consumer complaint received 2026-01-01 00:00:00
Product: Debt collection — Credit card debt
Issue: Electronic communications — Used obscene, profane, or other abusive language
Company: Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC
State: NC

Complaint narrative:
Subject : Debt Collector Using Illegal Email Subject Lines That Reveal Debt Information ( FDCPA 805 ( b ) Violation ) Company : Portfolio Recovery Associates , LLC Summary of the Issue : Portfolio Recovery Associates contacted me by email using a subject line that reveals or strongly implies the existence of a debt. The subject line they used was : Start taking financial control! 

This subject line is visible in email previews, lockscreen notifications, shared inboxes, and workplace email systems. Because it implies financial distress, delinquency, or a need for payment arrangements, it constitutes a thirdparty disclosure risk, which is strictly prohibited under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act ( FDCPA ). 
I will provide a copy of the email as evidence. 

Why This Is a Violation of Federal Law 1. FDCPA 805 ( b ) ThirdParty Disclosure Debt collectors may not reveal directly or indirectly any information about a debt to third parties.

The subject line Start taking financial control! is not neutral. It implies : - I am not in control of my finances- I owe money - I need to take action regarding a financial obligation- The sender is attempting to collect a debt Because email subject lines are visible without opening the message, this creates a serious risk of unauthorized third-party disclosure to : - Employers - Coworkers - Family members - Anyone with access to shared devices or inboxes This is a direct violation of 805 ( b ).

2. FDCPA 806 Harassment or Abuse Communications that could embarrass or shame a consumer are prohibited.

The phrase Start taking financial control! implies financial instability and is coercive and shaming in tone.

3. FDCPA 807 False, Deceptive, or Misleading Representations Debt collectors may not use deceptive or manipulative language.

This subject line is crafted to pressure the consumer into opening the email by implying financial XXXX  or delinquency. It is misleading and deceptive. 

4. FDCPA 813 Civil Liability These violations expose Portfolio Recovery Associates to statutory damages, actual damages, and attorneys fees.

Pattern of Conduct This is not an isolated issue. Portfolio Recovery Associates has a documented history of FDCPA violations, including improper communication practices. This email continues that pattern and demonstrates : - A failure to implement compliant communication procedures - A disregard for consumer privacy - A systemic risk of thirdparty disclosure I am requesting that the CFPB : - Investigate Portfolio Recovery Associates email communication practices -
Require PRA to cease all email communication - Require PRA to delete all credit reporting associated with this account - Require PRA to implement compliant communication procedures - Require PRA to provide written confirmation of corrective action Evidence Provided I will enclose : - A copy of the email - A screenshot of the subject line Desired Resolution I am requesting : - Immediate deletion of all Portfolio Recovery reporting - Immediate cessation of all communication - Confirmation that PRA will comply with FDCPA communication rules going forward

Company response to consumer: Closed with non-monetary relief