Which of the following describes an unfair or deceptive act in debt collection?

• A. Refraining from calls
• B. Providing a detailed explanation of the debt
• C. Misrepresentation of the debt, threats, misstatement of consequences, or other practices that mislead or dominate the consumer
• D. Offering flexible payment terms

Answer: (C)

Unfair or deceptive debt collection hinges on misleading or pressuring you in a way that misrepresents the debt or its consequences. The best description is that debt collectors may not misstate the amount, who owns the debt, or what will happen if you don’t pay, nor threaten or use tactics meant to dominate or intimidate you. These kinds of misrepresentations or threats are prohibited by laws protecting consumers from abusive collection practices.

In contrast, simply refraining from calls, providing a clear explanation of the debt, or offering flexible payment terms are not inherently deceptive or unfair actions.